Weight Loss - Causes, Conditions & When to See a Doctor
Unexplained weight loss is a decrease in body weight that occurs unintentionally and without a clear reason. It can be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
Overview
Unintentional weight loss of more than 5% of your body weight within 6-12 months is considered clinically significant and should be evaluated by a doctor. It can be caused by various conditions ranging from thyroid disorders to cancer.
Conditions That Cause Weight Loss
Weight Loss can be associated with several medical conditions. Understanding the underlying cause is important for proper treatment.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to a slowdown of the body's metabolic processes.
Diabetes
Common causeDiabetes is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, which over time can lead to serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves.
Depression
Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities, affecting how you feel, think, and handle daily activities.
Tuberculosis
Common causeTuberculosis (TB) is a potentially serious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis that mainly affects the lungs but can affect other parts of the body.
When to See a Doctor for Weight Loss
See a doctor if you have lost more than 5% of your body weight in 6-12 months without trying, especially if accompanied by fatigue, loss of appetite, fever, or other symptoms.
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Related Symptoms
People experiencing weight loss may also notice these symptoms:
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.