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Shedding pounds can be a cause for celebration, but what if the weight loss happens unintentionally and at an alarming rate? Unexplained weight loss, often defined as losing more than 5% of your body weight within 6-12 months without trying, can be a cause for concern. This blog delves into the various factors that might contribute to excessive weight loss, empowering you to recognise the warning signs and seek medical attention when necessary.
Synopsis
Causes of Sudden Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss can stem from various underlying conditions. Here are some common reasons for sudden weight loss:
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Digestive Issues: Conditions like Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, and malabsorption can hinder nutrient absorption, leading to weight loss. Symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, and abdominal pain often accompany these conditions.
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Thyroid Problems: An overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) can cause the body's metabolism to go into overdrive, burning calories at a rapid rate and leading to weight loss. Other symptoms may include anxiety, heart palpitations, and increased sweating.
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Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes, particularly type 1, can lead to weight loss as the body struggles to use glucose (sugar) for energy. Frequent urination, increased thirst, and fatigue are common signs.
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Cancer: While not the most common cause, some cancers, particularly cancers of the pancreas, stomach, oesophagus, and lung, can cause significant weight loss due to factors like decreased appetite, increased metabolic rate, and tumour growth.
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Mental Health Conditions: Depression, anxiety, and eating disorders like anorexia nervosa can significantly impact appetite and lead to weight loss. Changes in mood, sleep patterns, and eating habits might be present.
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Medications: Certain medications, like those for heart disease, diabetes, and thyroid conditions, can have weight loss as a side effect.
Recognising the Red Flags
While occasional fluctuations in weight are normal, unexplained and persistent weight loss warrants a doctor's visit, especially if accompanied by other symptoms. Here are some red flags to watch out for:
- Rapid weight loss (more than 1 pound per day)
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue and weakness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty swallowing
- Abdominal pain
- Bleeding
- Changes in bowel habits
- Night sweats
- Fever
- Depressed mood
- Difficulty concentrating
Taking Charge of Your Health: Unexplained Weight Loss Treatment
If you're experiencing unexplained weight loss, here's what you can do:
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Schedule a doctor's appointment: Discuss your weight loss, any concerning symptoms, and your medical history.
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Maintain a weight log: Keeping track of your weight and any changes can be helpful for your doctor.
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Be prepared to answer questions: Your doctor may ask about your diet, exercise routine, medications, and emotional well-being.
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Follow your doctor's recommendations: This might involve diagnostic tests, dietary changes, medication adjustments, or a referral to a specialist depending on the underlying cause.
Unexplained weight loss shouldn't be ignored. Early diagnosis and treatment of the underlying condition are crucial for regaining a healthy weight and overall well-being. By being aware of the causes and red flags, you can take proactive steps towards maintaining your health. Book a consultation with our expert doctor in Patiala if you are experiencing excessive weight loss. You may also bookmark our blog page to never miss any of the latest blogs shared by our doctors.
FAQ's
You should be worried about weight loss if it's unplanned and is close to or more than 4.5 kgs in 6 to 12 months of duration. You must consult an expert doctor in Patiala to determine the underlying cause behind weight loss and get timely treatment regarding it.
Yes, excessive weight loss can be a sign of depression, anxiety disorder, digestive problems or diabetes.
Yes, excessive weight loss can give rise to the following conditions:
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Dehydration: Rapid weight loss can lead to dehydration, which reduces blood volume and makes your heart work harder to pump blood throughout your body.
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Low Blood Pressure: Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances can also cause dips in blood pressure, putting strain on your heart.
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Electrolyte Imbalance: Electrolytes are minerals essential for various bodily functions, including heart rhythm. Rapid weight loss can disrupt electrolyte balance, potentially leading to arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).
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Exacerbated Heart Failure: If you already have heart failure, rapid weight loss can worsen the condition by further straining your weakened heart.
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Sudden Cardiac Arrest (rare): In some cases, severe electrolyte imbalances caused by rapid weight loss can lead to sudden cardiac arrest, although this is uncommon.
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