Anorexia, cachexia, and dysphagia: the symptom experience.

OBJECTIVES

To review the symptoms of anorexia, cachexia, and dysphagia and to provide information on nutritional assessment and interventions.

DATA SOURCES

Published studies of anorexia, cachexia, and dysphagia, research abstracts, and review articles.

CONCLUSIONS

Anorexia, cachexia, and dysphagia can cause severe alterations in nutrition in cancer patients that may lead to irreversible nutritional compromise and death. Nursing research must focus on symptom management of these three symptoms, the needs of the patient and family, and the impact of dysphagia on quality of life.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Assessment, objective evaluation, pharmacological interventions, and nutritional counseling are important interventions for patients with anorexia and cachexia. Swallowing therapy, food intake adjustments, oral hygiene, and supportive care are important measures needed by the patient with dysphagia.