Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, new confusion, vomit containing blood, or black, tar-like stools.
These symptoms need emergency care regardless of your appetite.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek same-day medical advice if you cannot keep fluids down or have signs of dehydration.
These include very little or dark urine, a very dry mouth, worsening dizziness, or unusual drowsiness.
Children and older adults can become dehydrated more quickly.
Get urgent assessment if appetite loss occurs with severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, difficulty swallowing, a high fever with marked weakness, or rapid unplanned weight loss.
Seek advice sooner for a baby, child, frail older adult, or anyone with a condition that makes dehydration or poor nutrition more risky.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Book a routine appointment if the appetite loss:
Does not improve as a short illness clears
Keeps returning or is getting worse
Causes unplanned weight loss or weakness
Makes it difficult to meet your usual food needs
Occurs with persistent nausea, bowel changes, pain, or low mood
Is linked to concerns about eating, weight, or body image
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Anorexia. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.