Unexplained Weight Loss Can Be A Sign Of An Underlying Medical Condition

FitnessJuly 11, 2017

When you begin to lose weight without making any effort and it e persists, that could be an indication of an underlying medical condition. The point at which unexplained weight loss begins to become a medical concern cannot be accurately predicted. However, doctors believe that if adults lose 5% of their weight over a period of six months to one year—and this relates particularly to the elderly— there is a reason for concern. As such, a medical opinion must be sought after.

Your weight can be affected by your calorie intake, your overall health, the level of activity, absorption of nutrients by the body, and social and economic factors.

“The loss of weight and lack of nutrition associated with a chronic illness is referred to as cachexia. Unexplained, unintentional weight loss is often a result of illness and should be evaluated by a health-care professional.”

Reasons For Unexplained Weight Loss

Unexplained weight loss can occur due to many reasons, which can be medical and nonmedical. A combination of factors can result in a general decline in the health and the related loss of weight. In many cases, there is no specific reason for the unexplained weight loss. The potential reasons for unexplained weight loss include the following:

— Addison’s disease.
— Cancer.
— Celiac disease.
— Changes in diet or appetite.
— COPD.
— Dementia.
— Dental problems.
— Major depressive disorder.
— Diabetes.
— Hypercalcemia.
— Medications.
— Parkinson’s disease.
— Substance abuse which can include alcohol and illicit drugs.
— Tuberculosis.
— Hypothyroidism.
— Peptic ulcer.
— Ulcerative colitis.
— HIV-AIDS.
— Heart failure.
— Crohn’s disease.
— Changes in the sense of smell and taste.

When Should You Consult A Doctor?

If you are consistently and effortlessly losing weight and you are not certain about the reason for the same, you should consult a doctor. You should not mysteriously lose 5% of your weight within six months to one year, particularly if you are elderly.

The doctor will work with you to determine the reasons for the weight loss. Initially, you will be required to go through a thorough history, basic laboratory testing, and a physical examination. Full body scans to identify any hidden cancers do not usually help unless other indicators point that direction.

Watchful waiting for some time is considered as a reasonable step when the doctor unable to identify any reasons from the basic evaluation. The doctor may also put you on a special diet to prevent further weight loss or to regain the weight they have lost.

Should You Be Concerned About Unexplained Weight Loss?

You have no reason to be concerned about unexplained weight loss unless your doctor identifies any of the problems mentioned above. It is quite common for some people—especially the elderly—to lose weight despite while being in good health. This can easily be rectified by consulting a doctor and following the advice provided. You should also implement lifestyle changes to regain the lost pounds.

Most people are presently dealing with an epidemic of obesity and could be surprised by the subject of unexplained weight loss. It is difficult to understand how a person can lose weight mysteriously. However, it must be understood that a single or a combination of the factors mentioned above could lead to this problem. Once you understand the reason behind your loss of weight, take corrective measures after consulting an expert.