Are you losing weight?

Yes, I think there might be severe health complications!

What can be the reasons for sudden unexplained weight loss?

No worries, we are here to help you out with this. We will be understanding everything regarding weight loss that is sudden and unexpected.

Unexplained weight loss:

Many people lose weight depending on their unique circumstances because the cause may vary from person to person. So losing weight is a common thing and there is no issue with it. But when you observe rapid weight loss all of a sudden that can be an issue you should be focusing on. So the weight loss of 5% of the body’s weight can be regarded as unexplained and serious. When you lose more than 5% of your body weight there might be several causes such as:

Causes of unexplained weight loss:

1)Hyperthyroidism

If you are someone who is experiencing unexplained weight loss then hyperthyroidism can be a cause of that because the thyroid gland that is located in the neck plays a crucial role in regulating the hormones responsible for metabolism. When your thyroid gland produces too many thyroid hormones it leads to an increased metabolic rate. So, the main symptoms of hyperthyroidism are weight loss, increased appetite, sweating, and anxiety. If you experience any of these symptoms along with weight loss go for a thyroid check.

2)Cancer

The next common cause of unexplained weight loss can be cancer because cancer tumors are known to increase the body's energy expenditure by bringing changes in metabolism. The main symptoms of cancer are loss of appetite, nausea, and difficulty in swallowing. Also, you need to make sure that cancers that are associated with the digestive tract such as esophageal, stomach, and pancreatic cancers can have the symptoms of weight loss.  It doesn't mean that if you lost weight that's cancer, it means there is a chance that you might have cancer.

3)Cardiovascular issues

Yes, cardiovascular issues can also be a reason for your weight loss because congestive heart failure can cause symptoms such as loss of appetite,  nausea, and fatigue that results in weight loss.

4)Depression and anxiety 

Most of the people who have mental health issues such as depression and anxiety can also experience unexplained weight loss. Also, you need to understand that depression can decrease your appetite, and disinterest in food can result in weight loss. Anxiety can cause nausea and nervousness in the stomach that can reduce your food intake leading to weight loss.

5)Rheumatoid arthritis

In a few people with rheumatoid arthritis weight loss can be seen because of increased inflammation and decreased appetite. 

6)Medications

Certain medications such as medicines for hyperthyroidism and cancer chemotherapy can result in weight loss as a side effect. 

7)Diabetes

Are you thinking about how diabetes can lead to weight loss yes when you have type 1 diabetes an autoimmune condition your pancreas will reduce insulin production which can be a reason for weight loss.  This is because without insulin your body can not use glucose for energy leading to the breakdown of fat and muscle instead. Due to this in the initial days of type 1 diabetes, you may experience the symptoms of weight loss.  Along with this, it can also show symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. 

8)Celiac disease

Your weight loss can also be due to celiac disease, which is an autoimmune condition where gluten is not digested leading to damage of the small intestine. The most common symptoms of Celiac disease are weight loss, diarrhea, and bloating. So have a medical check-up if you are experiencing all the mentioned symptoms and a gluten-free diet can be best helpful for you for treating celiac disease. 

9)Lupus

Lupus can also be called systemic lupus erythematosus which is an autoimmune condition in which weight loss can be a symptom due to factors such as chronic inflammation, and gastrointestinal problems and may be due to the side effects of medicines. 

10)Crohn’s disease

Most people do not have any idea regarding Crohn’s disease until they get diagnosed with it. It can be defined as the chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Weight loss can be a symptom of Crohn's disease along with abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. 

11)Addison’s disease

Yes, if you are losing weight without any underlying cause then Addison’s disease might be a cause. Addison’s disease also called adrenal insufficiency occurs when adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones. Weight loss can be a symptom of Addison's disease along with fatigue, muscle weakness, and low blood pressure.

12)Eating disorders

People who are diagnosed with eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are more attentive to having an ideal body image and fear gaining weight. So they engage themselves in extreme dieting and exercises that lead to weight loss and malnutrition. So be careful of your symptoms and get treated accordingly for a healthier self.

13)COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can be a reason for your weight loss because the airflow is blocked due to COPD making it difficult to breathe which results in weight loss. The symptoms such as loss of appetite and fatigue are seen due to increased energy expenditure to breathe.

14)Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that can also cause weight loss due to reduced food intake. The symptoms include muscle rigidity, tremors, and difficulty in swallowing due to which food intake is reduced leading to weight loss. 

15)Tuberculosis

You might have heard the name tuberculosis but you'll not have any idea about the symptoms which include cough, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. So do have a check-up if you lost weight along with the mentioned symptoms. 

End note:

Here is everything regarding unexplained weight loss and the underlying causes. It might be a little panicking about sudden experiences of weight loss but be patient observe your symptoms and seek medical evaluation for the diagnosis of the condition. Early diagnosis and proper treatment procedures can best help you with the prevention of any further complications.