Which condition can contribute to nutritional issues in the elderly?

Pulmonary disease can significantly contribute to nutritional issues in the elderly for several reasons. First, individuals with chronic pulmonary disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), may experience increased energy expenditure due to the effort needed for breathing, leading to increased caloric needs. If they do not consume enough calories to meet these heightened energy demands, they may face weight loss and malnutrition.

Additionally, pulmonary disease can affect appetite. Symptoms such as difficulty breathing can make eating uncomfortable, leading to lower food intake. The disease may also limit physical activity, which can further impact nutritional health and appetite. Moreover, medications for pulmonary conditions sometimes have side effects that can also affect appetite or metabolism.

While hypertension, allergies, and asthma can also bring nutritional challenges, their direct impact on nutritional intake and energy requirements does not generally match the level of concern posed by pulmonary disease. The multifaceted effects of pulmonary disease on both physical and psychological aspects of eating make it a more critical factor in assessing nutritional issues in the elderly.