CONDITIONS
Unexplained Weight Loss
What is unexplained weight loss?
Experiencing weight loss without intentional changes to diet or activity may indicate a serious underlying medical condition. Disorders such as depression, inflammatory bowel disease, and hyperthyroidism are potential contributors to unexplained weight loss. Noticing rapid weight loss over a six to twelve-month period is a significant indicator that warrants medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause.
What could be the cause of unexplained weight loss?
Multiple factors may contribute to unexplained weight loss, including the following conditions:
- Inflammatory bowel disease can cause persistent inflammation, leading to unintentional weight loss through mechanisms such as malabsorption, reduced appetite from pain and discomfort, dietary restrictions, and complications including obstructions and strictures.
- Other digestive disorders, such as celiac disease—an autoimmune condition in which gluten exposure triggers immune-mediated damage—can result in nutritional deficiencies and subsequent weight loss. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) may also cause reduced appetite, leading to unintentional weight loss.
How do you diagnose unexplained weight loss?
The initial step in diagnosing unexplained weight loss involves a detailed assessment of your symptoms and a comprehensive medical history, including previous illnesses and medical procedures.
The following diagnostic tests may be conducted to identify the cause of unexplained weight loss:
- A detailed in-office physical examination
- Blood tests
- Urinalysis
- Blood sugar test
- Imaging studies, such as a CT scan and an ultrasound
How do you resolve unexplained weight loss?
Management of unexplained weight loss depends on identifying the underlying cause, making a comprehensive diagnostic assessment essential. Although minor weight fluctuations are common, significant weight loss over a short period may indicate a serious health issue and requires thorough evaluation.
If you are concerned about the amount of weight you have lost, contact the practice for further assistance. During your consultation, a comprehensive physical examination will be performed to determine the cause of your weight loss and to tailor treatment accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
All disease
begins in the gut.
