What can cause gradual weight loss

Unintentional weight loss can have underlying causes ranging from thyroid problems to infections to cancer, and always warrants an investigation. Treatment of weight loss can, in turn, help people tolerate treatments for whatever the condition is that has caused weight loss. Pack, Q. Irritability, heavy drinking, indecision, and problems sleeping are other common symptoms of depression. Fecal transplant treatment of C. However, a person may wish to see a doctor if they experience significant weight loss that has no clear explanation. Cachexia in Cancer Patients and Its Causes. Weight loss is a common symptom of both conditions, especially among younger people. Evans AT, et al. However, it is also common to lose weight if you have a serious disease.

Do you have diarrhea? Reading food labels Rectal cancer Recurrent breast cancer Rethinking Rheumatoid Arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis Rheumatoid Arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis: Does pregnancy affect symptoms? Sci Rep. Palliative care teams do an excellent job of addressing concerns not directly related to cancer for example, chemotherapy or radiation therapy such as unintentional weight loss. Depression, anxiety and exercise Depression: Diagnosis is key Depression in women: Understanding the gender gap Depression major depressive disorder Depression: Provide support, encouragement Depression: Supporting a family member or friend Dermatomyositis Diabetes Diabetes and dental care Diabetes and depression: Coping with the two conditions Diabetes and exercise: When to monitor your blood sugar Diabetes and fasting: Can I fast during Ramadan? In addition, people who have RA may experience muscle loss because the inflammation in their joints keeps them from engaging in regular physical activity. Although cancer symptoms tend to vary depending on the type, stage, and location of the disease, unexplained weight loss is sometimes a sign of cancer. Wilkinson JM expert opinion. Cappola explains. The treatment depends on the cause. Hookworm infection of the gut is another example where weight loss may be the first indication of disease.

Several types of cancer, as well as a tumor or ulcer in your stomach or intestines, can cause inflammation or malabsorption issues that may lead to a drop in weight, Dr. Symptoms Unexplained weight loss. There are various diseases that can affect the way food is absorbed and taken into the body from the gut. Show references AskMayoExpert. He or she may also examine you. To diagnose your weight loss, your doctor will give you a physical examination and ask you such questions as. However, it is also common to lose weight if you have a serious disease. The weight loss does not come about because of diet, exercise or lifestyle changes. People in the early stages of dementia may appear to get by reasonably well but, in fact, they are not able to look after themselves very well. If you are losing weight without trying it is important to make an appointment to see your doctor, even if you think there is an explanation for your weight loss. People can help their doctor pinpoint the underlying cause by paying attention to any additional symptoms that they experience.