What diseases lead to weight loss? Professor named 6 reasons for rapid weight loss

Do not rejoice if you suddenly start to lose weight without resorting to dieting and exercise. This symptom should alert you. Perhaps the cause of this is a malfunction in the body.

MD, professor, specialist in integrative and anti-aging medicine

“Unexplained weight loss or, in other words, a decrease in body weight without special effort, especially if it is significant, persistent or permanent, may be a sign of disease.”

The starting point at which unexplained weight loss becomes a medical problem is not precisely defined. But many researchers have shown that a checkup with a doctor is necessary if you lose more than 5% of your weight in 6-12 months, especially if you are elderly.

Sudden weight loss can be caused by physical, psychological changes, or environmental factors.

1. Hormonal changes

Weight loss can be related to hormonal diseases, as hormones alter metabolism and appetite. The most common diseases affecting weight loss are Addison’s disease, type 1 diabetes, and thyroid pathology, specifically thyroid hyperfunction.

2. Gastrointestinal problems

Gastrointestinal problems can disrupt the production of the hunger hormone ghrelin and the satiety hormone leptin, resulting in decreased appetite. Diseases of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract can interfere with digestion and therefore absorption of all nutrients. The most severe impairments are brought on by: Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease, liver and pancreatic diseases, and parasitic infestations.

3. Dental problems and pathology of the tongue and oral mucosa

Dental problems, pathology of the tongue and oral mucosa can make it difficult to eat, chew food properly and, as a consequence, cause impaired digestion in the stomach and intestines, leading to weight loss.

4. Malignant neoplasms

Malignant neoplasms cause inflammation in the body, in turn disrupting the production of hormones that regulate appetite. Moreover, many cancer treatments and medications can cause nausea, vomiting, and decreased appetite. Among the cancers that cause unexplained weight loss: pancreatic, lung, stomach, and esophageal cancers.

5. Eating disorders

People who suffer from anorexia or bulimia (bouts of excessive overeating followed by vomiting) are particularly vulnerable to sudden weight loss.

6. Severe stress

Severe stress, major life changes or severe psychological trauma can lead to increased anxiety, decreased appetite and, as a result, severe weight loss. Such difficult events include divorce, loss of a loved one, layoff, change of residence.

To summarize, if over the past 6-12 months you have lost 5% of your weight without making any special efforts, it is a reason to consult a doctor for a comprehensive and in-depth examination. Remember: the earlier the disease is detected, the better the chances of curing it.