What is a common symptom of infection that may indicate the need for medical attention?

Loss of appetite is a common symptom of infection that often signals the body is responding to illness. When an infection occurs, the body's immune system activates, releasing various chemicals that can alter normal physiological functions. This response can lead to sensations such as nausea or discomfort, which may make it difficult for an individual to eat or feel like eating.

Infections often trigger systemic effects, leading to changes in appetite as the body prioritizes fighting off the infection over normal digestion. Noticing a significant loss of appetite, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms like fever, fatigue, or localized pain, can be a strong indicator that medical attention is needed to address the underlying issue.

Feeling energetic and weight gain are not typically associated with infections, as these conditions might indicate good health or well-being, rather than a response to illness. Increased sweating can occur due to a number of reasons and may not specifically indicate an infection, making loss of appetite a clearer signal for concern in this context.