Why can't lung cancer patients eat properly?
Dec 12, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
In general, loss of appetite in lung cancer patients may be caused by factors such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, gastritis, intestinal obstruction, or liver metastases. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding excessive anxiety are important, along with keeping a regular schedule and ensuring adequate sleep.
Generally, loss of appetite in lung cancer patients may be caused by factors such as anxiety, sleep disorders, gastritis, intestinal obstruction, or liver metastases. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Anxiety
Long-term mental stress can excite the sympathetic nervous system, inhibiting digestive juice secretion and slowing gastrointestinal motility, leading to reduced appetite. Communicating more with family members to relieve stress, engaging in gentle outdoor activities to shift focus, and maintaining a regular daily routine can help improve the condition.
2. Sleep Disorders
Sleep deprivation affects hypothalamic function and disrupts the balance of ghrelin and leptin secretion, resulting in impaired appetite regulation. Avoid electronic screens before bedtime; practices such as soaking feet, listening to soft music, and creating a quiet, comfortable sleeping environment can promote better sleep.
3. Gastritis
Inflammation of the gastric mucosa due to irritation causes discomfort when stomach acid is secreted after eating, reducing the desire to eat. Medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, hydrotalcite chewable tablets, and domperidone tablets may be used under medical guidance. Diet should primarily consist of warm, soft, and easily digestible foods.
4. Intestinal Obstruction
Blockage in the intestinal tract prevents normal emptying of food, causing bloating and abdominal pain, which leads to refusal to eat. Immediate medical attention is required. Treatments may include adhesion lysis surgery or bowel resection with anastomosis. After surgery, gradually transition from a liquid diet back to normal eating.
5. Liver Metastases
Impaired liver metabolism affects the synthesis of digestive enzymes, while tumor compression of the gastrointestinal tract creates a dual effect that results in appetite loss. Under a doctor’s supervision, medications such as sorafenib tablets, lenvatinib capsules, or apatinib mesylate tablets may be used, with regular monitoring of liver function.
In daily life, maintain a positive mindset and avoid excessive anxiety; follow a regular sleep schedule to ensure adequate rest; eat light, regular meals and avoid irritating foods; undergo routine physical check-ups to detect abnormalities early; and strictly follow medical instructions for treatment without adjusting medications on your own.
