8 Significant Weight Loss Causes

Significant weight loss can occur due to various reasons, and while some may be harmless, others can be serious and require medical attention. In general, weight loss is alarming if you unintentionally lose more than 5% of your body weight within 6 to 12 months without significantly changing your diet or exercise routine.

Here are some common causes of significant weight loss.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, which can cause unintentional weight loss, despite having a good appetite.

Cancer

Some types of cancer, such as pancreatic, lung, and stomach, can cause significant weight loss. Cancer cells use a lot of the body’s energy and can lead to a loss of appetite, which can cause weight loss.

Depression

Depression is a mental health condition that can affect appetite and cause significant weight loss. When you’re depressed, you may lose interest in food, and it can be challenging to motivate yourself to eat.

Diabetes

Uncontrolled diabetes can cause significant weight loss due to the body’s inability to use glucose properly. This can cause the body to burn fat and muscle for energy, leading to weight loss.

Inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, can cause significant weight loss due to inflammation in the digestive tract, which can interfere with nutrient absorption.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease that can cause significant weight loss due to the body’s increased energy needs for breathing.

Medications

Certain medications, such as antidepressants, chemotherapy drugs, and drugs for Parkinson’s disease, can cause significant weight loss as a side effect.

Chronic infections

Chronic infections, such as HIV/AIDS or tuberculosis, can cause significant weight loss due to the body’s increased energy needed to fight the disease.

What should I do with significant weight loss cause?

If you are experiencing significant weight loss, you must schedule an appointment with your doctor to determine the underlying cause. Your doctor may perform a physical examination, review your medical history, and order blood tests or other diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your weight loss.

Sometimes, your doctor may refer you to a specialist, such as an endocrinologist or gastroenterologist, for further evaluation and treatment.

Depending on the underlying cause of your weight loss, your doctor may recommend different treatment options. For example, if you have hyperthyroidism, you may be prescribed medication to regulate your thyroid hormone levels. If you have depression, your doctor may recommend therapy and medication to improve your mental health.

In addition to seeking medical treatment, there are several things you can do to maintain a healthy weight, such as:

1. Eating a balanced diet: Make sure you get enough calories and nutrients by eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
2. Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases.
3. Get enough sleep: Aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night to help regulate your appetite and maintain a healthy weight.
4. Manage stress: Stress can affect your appetite and contribute to weight loss—practice stress management techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
5. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to weight loss and other health problems. Avoid or limit these habits to maintain a healthy weight.

Remember, significant weight loss can be a sign of a severe medical condition, so it is essential to seek medical attention if you are experiencing this problem. Working with your doctor and taking steps to maintain a healthy weight can improve your overall health and well-being.