Unexplained Weight Loss
What is Unexplained Weight Loss?
However, the point when an unexplained weight loss turns into a medical concern is not specific.
Causes of unexplained weight loss
Unexplained weight loss can be caused due to various reasons ranging from mild to severe. It can be due to psychological or physical, including:
- Crohn’s disease
- Cancer
- Heart failure
- Parkinson’s disease
- AIDS
- Addison’s disease
- Overactive or underactive thyroid gland
- Depression or anxiety
- Dental problems
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Diabetes
- Celiac disease
- Side effects of certain medications
- Diabetes
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- A parasitic infection
- Swelling of the pancreas
- Undiagnosed eating disorders
- Dementia
- Dysphagia
The point at which unexplained weight loss becomes a medical concern is not exact. But many doctors agree that a medical evaluation is called for if you lose more than 5 percent of your weight in six months to a year, especially if you’re an older adult. For example, a 5 percent weight loss in someone who is 160 pounds (72 kilograms) is 8 pounds (3.6 kilograms). In someone who is 200 pounds (90 kilograms), it’s 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms).
Your weight is affected by your calorie intake, activity level, overall health, age, nutrient absorption, and economic and social factors.
Symptoms of unexplained weight loss
The main symptom of unexplained weight loss is weakness. Various other associated symptoms that helps you notice you are losing weight abnormally are:
- Pain
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Night sweats
- Loss of energy
- Loss of appetite
- Inability to perform everyday tasks
- Shortness of breath when taking stairs or running
When to see a doctor
In the case of older adults who have underlying health conditions as well, a smaller amount of weight loss is also crucial to be attended. When you visit a medical professional, he will start by asking a few questions about your daily habits, persisting health conditions, and medical history. Based on the first course of the consultation, he will suggest going through a physical examination and some laboratory tests.
Your doctor may also recommend meeting a dietician or nutritionist if required. So, if you are facing issues of sudden weight loss, meet Dr M. V. Rao for an in-depth consultation.
Staying healthy
Doctor’s guide
Yashoda Hospitals Somajiguda
Rajbhavan Road, Somajiguda, Matha Nagar, Hyderabad, Telangana.
500082
Mallela Clinic
Mallela Clinic, Street No 4, Vijay Nagar Colony, Hyderabad, Telangana.
500057
P: +91 9908 600 004
M: drmvraomallela@gmail.com
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