Mayo Clinic Care Network Content
Definitions

Hunger


When to make a doctor’s appointment

See a doctor if:

  • Increase in appetite persists or is unexplained
  • Weight loss or weight gain
  • Anxious
  • Heart palpitations
  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination

Description

The sense of an empty stomach that may prompt increased appetite or craving for food.

When to make a doctor's appointment

See a healthcare professional if there is:

  • Increase in appetite that persists or is unexplained.
  • Weight loss or weight gain.
  • Anxiety.
  • Heart palpitations.
  • Increased thirst.
  • No desire or less desire to eat for more than five days.
  • Abdominal pain or changes in bowel habits.