Cachexia

Cachexia is a condition that is characterized by extreme weight loss and muscle wasting. It is usually caused by a serious underlying medical condition, such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, chronic heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It may also be seen in patients with long-term inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Cachexia results from a combination of anorexia, increased energy expenditure, and loss of muscle mass. Anorexia is an inability to consume adequate nutrition due to underlying medical conditions or medications. Increased energy expenditure is caused by the body’s need for more energy to combat the disease or illness. This can lead to muscle wasting as the body breaks down muscle tissue for energy. The combination of these factors leads to extreme weight loss, which can affect a patient’s overall health and well-being. Medical cachexia can be managed through lifestyle changes, medications, and nutrition therapy. Lifestyle changes can include increasing physical activity and reducing alcohol intake. Medications, such as appetite stimulants, muscle relaxants, and steroids, can be used to help improve appetite and increase muscle mass. Nutrition therapy can include eating smaller, more frequent meals, eating high-protein foods, and taking nutritional supplements.