Diagnosis starts with a history and physical exam. This may be all that is needed to make the diagnosis. In other cases, further tests will be needed. The specific tests ordered depend on the suspected cause. For instance, blood tests can help diagnose diabetes, hormone imbalances, and liver disease.
Urine tests can help diagnose kidney infections or pregnancy.
Other tests are also possible in certain cases. Malnutrition , which is a lack of necessary food and nutrients in the body, is a concern if a loss of appetite lasts for more than a few weeks. Other long-term effects are related to the cause. For instance, diabetes can cause damage to many different organs in the body, including the kidneys, eyes, and nerves. Cancer can cause death.