#UnintentionalWeightLoss

[cassandrawallac]

Understanding the Underlying Factors of Unintentional Weight Loss

Unintentional weight loss may be of concern and usually points to existing medical disorders. Even though some may at first perceive it in a positive light, looking into the reasons for this shift is essential. Medical assessments reveal that nearly 72% of people experiencing weight loss without a known reason have an underlying condition, meaning it’s important to reach out to a healthcare provider. Definition of Unintentional Weight Loss Unintentional weight loss is a condition in which an individual loses weight without their will. This can happen with a weight loss of 5% or more in a period of 6 months to one year. For example, a 200-pound man would weigh 190 pounds after a 10-pound loss while a 130-pound woman would weigh 123 pounds after 6-7 pounds lost. Weight loss in such a manner is not an outcome of any deliberate steps such as dieting or exercising more. When to Seek Medical Attention Consult a healthcare provider if you experience a 5% to 10% weight loss without intention. Early evaluation is critical, as identifying the underlying causes may require blood tests or imaging studies. Common Causes Several factors can contribute to unintentional weight loss, including: Cancer: A common early indicator, with approximately 40% of cancer patients experiencing weight loss at diagnosis. Diabetes: Especially prevalent in Type 1 diabetes, where weight loss can occur due to insulin issues. Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid accelerates metabolism, leading to weight loss. Muscle Loss: Conditions like cancer or HIV/AIDS can cause significant muscle atrophy, resulting in weight loss. Depression: This can lead to altered eating habits and significant weight changes. Other Causes: Include Addison’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, infections, digestive issues, and poor nutrition. Diagnosis and Evaluation A thorough medical history and physical examination by your healthcare provider are essential for diagnosing unintentional weight loss. They may ask about: When weight loss started Changes in diet or exercise Other symptoms (e.g., shortness of breath) Previous health screenings Tests and Labs Your provider may order various tests, including: Complete Blood Count (CBC) Thyroid Panel Liver and Kidney Function Tests Blood Sugar Tests Urinalysis Imaging Studies Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs can help identify potential underlying issues. Treatment Addressing unintentional weight loss involves identifying and treating the underlying cause. Consultation with palliative care may be beneficial for patients with serious conditions like cancer. Summary Unexplained weight loss is often a clue to underlying health issues that require attention. Consult with a healthcare provider to identify the cause and receive appropriate treatment. Frequently Asked Questions What is the most common reason for unintentional weight loss? Cancer is often a leading cause among older adults, while medication-related appetite loss is common in those aged 65 and older. When should I be concerned about weight loss? Weight loss exceeding 10 pounds or 5% of body weight within six to twelve months is concerning. Can unintentional weight loss be reversed? Yes, with proper diagnosis and treatment, weight loss can often be managed or resolved. Should I be concerned about weight loss during pregnancy? Yes, unintentional weight loss during pregnancy should prompt medical evaluation. If you or someone you know is experiencing unexplained weight loss, it's vital to seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis and intervention can lead to better health outcomes.

Read more: The underlying factors of unintentional weight loss

[chronic-youth]

You know the body dysmorphia is real when you just buy new pants in a size 6(which I haven’t worn since 7th grade) and you still see a size 12 and larger in the mirror. I keep looking at the pants and they look so small and child size and I genuinely cannot make myself accept that they fit me yesterday when I tried them on in the store and bought them and that they are in fact my size. My eyes and my brain literally cannot compute and it’s making my head hurt. Years of relentless bullying about my weight in relation to everything(because everything you do while fat is hilarious) and my own dysphoric feelings have permanently skewed my perception of self and that is so damn heavy. Almost cried because I truly cannot fathom that these new pants will infact fit my body.(Will probably wear a size 8 pants tomorrow because I cannot look at the new size 6s anymore without feeling anxious.)

Also I never intended to lose weight. I didn’t do anything and I only lost 5 pounds but my legs keep getting smaller. They look as if they are atrophying and I get bruises on my shins from my shin bone hitting my skin and I’m genuinely afraid that there is something wrong with my body to the point that it paralyzes me with fear and I pretend everything is fine and don’t think about it. And I’m terrified to tell my doctor because I don’t want her to think I’m crazy 😭😭

[bigmamapeaches]

Replaced scale batteries, and I'm 25 pounds lighter than February. Environmental changes, they're no joke. Coworkers no longer bring me treats, increased opportunities to drink water and throw together foods with better nutritional value than gas station taquitos. We acquired VR and I've been doing mindless play-based cardio. Apparently, small changes work, whether you plan or not. "Recipe": one can of garbanzo and one can of black beans, rinsed. About half of a cucumber. A grip on quartered tiny tomatoes (grape, cherry, who cares?). Crumbled feta cheese. Fine-cut parsley bunch. Small jar of marinated artichoke hearts. Dollop of avocado lime dressing. Mix it with your hands and schlop it in a feeding vessel. Image Description: a blue bowl filled with colorful bean salad with a spoon sticking out. #QuarantineQueen #BeanSalad #GilbertAZ #UnintentionalWeightLoss #HealthyEats #SimpleRecipes #QuickMeals #vegetarian (at Gilbert, Arizona) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDcOnj_pxrJ/?igshid=r4ji2puhxhcq

[ionave]

Weight fluctuations. Don't really know how to feel about it. #unintentionalweightloss #help #blah #bodyimage #confusion

[thelibrarianformerlyknownas-blog]

Although I’ve had success on the Divorce Diet, I would not recommend it to others. The side effects of anger, hostility, and insomnia are rough.

TLFKA

[norsunluu]

#HaventEatenAMealInAWeek #Ugh #SoHungry #NeedPizzaFriedChickenBacon #LiquidDiet #StillHealing #Tummy #Torso #Pale #UnintentionalWeightLoss

[heysoulsista]

I'm disappearing :/