Symptoms
The primary symptom is unintentional and unexplained weight loss. Additional symptoms may include:
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Muscle weakness
Changes in bowel habits
Night sweats
Fever
Swollen lymph nodes
Causes
Unexplained weight loss can stem from various underlying medical conditions, including:
Cancer: Many types of cancer can cause weight loss.
Hyperthyroidism: Overactive thyroid can accelerate metabolism.
Depression: Can lead to decreased appetite and weight loss.
Infection: Chronic infections like tuberculosis (TB) or HIV/AIDS can cause weight loss.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can affect nutrient absorption.
Heart Failure: Can lead to fluid retention and decreased appetite.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Increased energy expenditure due to breathing difficulties.
Diabetes: (especially undiagnosed or uncontrolled)
Medications: Certain medications can cause weight loss as a side effect.
Malabsorption: Conditions that interfere with nutrient absorption.
Neurological Disorders: Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, etc.
Substance Abuse: Alcohol or drug abuse can affect appetite and metabolism.
Medicine Used
There is no specific medicine for unexplained weight loss itself. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause. Medications prescribed will depend entirely on the diagnosed condition. Examples include:
Cancer: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, targeted therapies.
Hyperthyroidism: Anti-thyroid drugs, beta-blockers, radioactive iodine.
Depression: Antidepressants, therapy.
Infections: Antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals.
IBD: Anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppressants, biologics.
Diabetes: Insulin or oral medications to control blood sugar. Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Always consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Is Communicable
Unexplained weight loss itself is not communicable. However, if the weight loss is due to an infectious disease like tuberculosis or HIV, then that underlying infection is communicable.
Precautions
Precautions depend entirely on the underlying cause, if it is contagious.
If infection is the cause, follow standard infection control precautions (handwashing, avoid sharing personal items, etc.)
Since the cause of weight loss is unknown, consulting with your doctor for diagnosis should be the first course of action.
How long does an outbreak last?
As Unexplained Weight Loss is a symptom not a disease, an outbreak period is not aplicable.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and various tests to identify the underlying cause:
Blood Tests: Complete blood count (CBC), metabolic panel, thyroid function tests, liver function tests, kidney function tests, inflammatory markers, HIV test, etc.
Urine Tests: Urinalysis.
Stool Tests: To check for infections or malabsorption.
Imaging Studies: Chest X-ray, CT scan, MRI, ultrasound to look for tumors, infections, or other abnormalities.
Endoscopy/Colonoscopy: To examine the digestive tract.
Biopsy: If a mass or suspicious tissue is found.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies greatly depending on the underlying cause. Weight loss can be gradual or rapid. Other symptoms may appear before, during, or after the weight loss begins. There is no standard timeline, it completely varies.
Important Considerations
Seek medical attention: Unexplained weight loss should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Provide detailed information: Be prepared to provide your doctor with a detailed medical history, list of medications, and any other relevant information.
Follow-up: Adhere to your doctor's recommendations for follow-up appointments and testing.
Nutrition: Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial, but don't force yourself to eat. Your doctor may recommend a consultation with a registered dietitian.
Mental Health: The stress and anxiety associated with unexplained weight loss can impact mental health. Seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional if needed.