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Aug 17, 2022 · Most often, medical disorders that cause weight loss include other symptoms. Sometimes a specific cause isn't found. Potential causes of unexplained weight loss include. Cancer. Dementia. Dental problems. Depression (major depressive disorder) or other mood disorders. Diabetes. Hypercalcemia (high blood calcium level)
- Definition
Unexplained weight loss, or losing weight without trying —...
- When to See a Doctor
If you're losing weight without trying and you're concerned...
- Hypercalcemia
Over time, bones that don't bear weight release calcium into...
- Heart Failure
Proper treatment may improve the symptoms of heart failure...
- HIV/AIDS
Weight loss. Cough. Night sweats. These symptoms can be so...
- Hyperthyroidism
That can cause many symptoms, such as weight loss, hand...
- Dementia
Dementia generally involves memory loss. It's often one of...
- Alcohol Use Disorder
Excessive drinking can affect your nervous system, causing...
- Ulcerative Colitis
Weight loss; Fatigue; Fever; In children, failure to grow;...
- Prescription Drug Abuse
Overview. Prescription drug abuse is the use of a...
- Definition
Unexplained weight loss in the ambulatory elderly. J Am Geriatr Soc. 1991;39(5):497-500. Stajkovic S, Aitken EM, Holroyd-Leduc J. Unintentional weight loss in older adults [published correction ...
Aug 11, 2015 · Weight loss in older adults can sometimes signal an underlying health issue. It’s important to have unexplained weight loss evaluated to investigate the cause and make sure there isn’t a bigger problem that needs attention. When you go to see your doctor, one of the first things you do is step on a scale.
- Overview
- Symptoms and Causes
- Diagnosis and Tests
- Management and Treatment
Unexplained weight loss is a noticeable drop in body weight that occurs even if the person is not trying to lose weight. Unexplained weight loss can be a symptom of a serious illness, including cancer or diabetes. Treatment involves identifying the underlying cause of the weight loss.
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OverviewSymptoms and CausesDiagnosis and TestsManagement and Treatment
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What are the causes of unexplained weight loss?
Unexplained weight loss can be caused by conditions that range from mild to very serious. The causes can be physical or psychological, and include: An overactive or underactive thyroid gland. The thyroid gland helps regulate your body temperature and control your heart rate and metabolism (the process that turns the food you eat into energy). Cancer Crohn’s disease (an inflammation of the bowels) Heart failure Addison’s disease, a condition in which the adrenal glands, which sit on top of the kidneys, do not produce enough of the hormones cortisol and aldosterone Parkinson’s disease AIDS Gastrointestinal problems, such as peptic ulcer or ulcerative colitis Dental problems Depression or anxiety Side effects of prescription medications Celiac disease (allergy to gluten) Diabetes A parasitic infection Drug abuse Undiagnosed eating disorders Swelling of the pancreas Alcohol or drug abuse Dysphagia (swallowing problems) Dementia Advertisement
When should I see a doctor about unexplained weight loss?
You should consult your physician if you have lost more than 5 percent of body weight or 10 pounds without trying in a period of 6 to 12 months. This is especially important if you have other symptoms, too.
How is unexplained weight loss diagnosed?
To diagnose your weight loss, your doctor will give you a physical examination and ask you such questions as: How much weight have you lost? When did the weight loss begin? Are you taking any medications? Have your eating patterns changed? Are you exercising more? Have you been sick recently? Are you feeling tired more often? Do you have any dental problems? Do you have any problems with swallowing? Have you been vomiting? Are you experiencing stress? Have you had any fainting episodes? Do you have increased thirst? Are you urinating more than usual? Do you have diarrhea? Are you depressed? How much alcohol do you drink per day? The answers to these questions will help your doctor determine if other tests might be needed, such as blood work and imaging scans (X-rays, etc.). Advertisement
How is unexplained weight loss treated?
Unexplained weight loss is treated by identifying the underlying condition (the condition or illness that is causing the weight loss). If no underlying condition is identified right away, your doctor may recommend a wait-and-see approach, along with a special diet. For instance, your doctor may recommend that you use nutrition shakes to get more calories, or add flavor enhancers to your food to improve the taste so that you eat more. You may be also be referred to a dietitian for advice and counseling. Care at Cleveland Clinic Find a Primary Care Provider Schedule an Appointment Medically Reviewed Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 08/31/2018. Learn more about our editorial process.
Jun 30, 2023 · A few other factors may make it more likely to lose weight without an explanation. These include: In older adults. Research shows that unexplained weight loss occurs in 15–20% of people ages 65 ...
- According to a 2017 study of 2677 patients with unexplained weight loss in a Barcelona hospital, 33% of the subjects were diagnosed with some type...
- In the same 2017 study, the majority of those diagnosed with cancer were found to have pancreatic cancer and lymphoma. After that, kidney, bladder,...
- It’s common for your body weight to fluctuate. However, something else might be happening if you are losing weight without changing your habits. If...
Feb 2, 2024 · A healthy weight for older adults is higher than it is for younger people. Too much weight loss may lead to weak bones and other health problems. Losing weight without trying may be a sign of an illness. Or that an older person needs help with getting enough healthy foods. Nutrition, exercise, and social support are important for older adults ...
People also ask
What are the signs of sudden weight loss in elderly seniors?
What causes unexplained weight loss in older adults?
Is weight loss a problem in older adults?
Apr 17, 2024 · Sudden weight loss in old age is quick, unintentional, and unexplained in older adults. About 15% to 20% of seniors experience sudden weight loss. [02] Though some weight loss can be a normal part of aging, losing a substantial amount of weight over a short period of time can be a sign of an underlying condition.
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