It’s concerning when you start losing weight without even trying.
Losing weight without any effort or lifestyle changes can leave you feeling worried, as it might indicate a deeper health issue or underlying medical condition. While some weight loss is normal over time, rapid or unexplained weight loss can be linked to various serious health problems such as thyroid imbalances, digestive disorders, or even cancers.
These conditions require immediate medical attention and a proper diagnosis to ensure that any potential health risks are identified early and treated effectively.
Here is what you should know.
What causes loss of weight without trying?
Unintentional weight loss can happen due to various causes including malabsorption disorders, thyroid problems, chronic infections and certain cancers.
Malabsorption Disorders
Conditions like Celiac Disease, Crohn’s Disease or Chronic Pancreatitis prevent the body from absorbing nutrients properly, leading to weight loss despite regular eating.
Thyroid Problems
Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, speeds up metabolism, causing weight loss without changes in diet.
Infections
Chronic infections like tuberculosis or gastrointestinal infections can lead to weight loss as the body fights off illness.
Cancer
Certain cancers, especially those related to the digestive system like stomach or pancreatic cancer, can lead to significant, unexplained weight loss.
If you notice sudden weight loss without trying, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to investigate the underlying cause.
If you are losing weight without trying, a series of tests can help determine the cause. The first test typically includes a blood test to check for things like thyroid issues, anemia, liver function and nutrient deficiencies. Depending on the results your doctor might recommend further tests like:
Endoscopy
This allows the doctor to view your digestive tract to check for ulcers, inflammation or cancers.
Stool tests
These check for infections or digestive problems such as parasites or bacterial overgrowth.
Imaging tests
These include X-rays, CT scans or ultrasounds to check for internal issues, such as tumors or inflammation.
Thyroid function tests
These help rule out thyroid imbalances, which are a common cause of unexplained weight loss.
Each of these tests can help narrow down the possible reasons for the weight loss and guide the treatment plan.
What GI issues cause weight loss?
Gastrointestinal (GI) issues are a common source of unexplained weight loss. Some GI-related conditions that can lead to weight loss include Celiac Disease, Crohn’s Disease, Chronic Pancreatitis, Gastric Cancer and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
If you are experiencing unexplained weight loss, it could be linked to one of these following gastrointestinal (GI) conditions:
Celiac Disease
This autoimmune disorder causes the immune system to attack the small intestine when gluten is consumed, resulting in malabsorption of nutrients and weight loss.
Crohn’s Disease
An inflammatory bowel disease that leads to inflammation in the digestive tract, causing symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.
Chronic Pancreatitis
Inflammation of the pancreas can impair digestion, leading to difficulty absorbing nutrients and subsequent weight loss.
Gastric Cancer
Although less common cancers of the stomach and other digestive organs can cause significant weight loss along with other symptoms such as nausea and fatigue.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
While IBS doesn’t typically cause extreme weight loss, it can contribute to weight fluctuations if it leads to severe diarrhea or constipation.
Identifying and treating these GI conditions early is crucial to preventing further complications and managing weight loss effectively.
What is the most common cause of unexplained weight loss?
The most common cause of unexplained weight loss is hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid. This condition increases the body’s metabolism, causing it to burn calories faster than usual leading to weight loss.
If you are experiencing unexplained weight loss it could be due to one of the following common causes:
Hyperthyroidism
An overactive thyroid increases the body’s metabolism causing weight loss along with symptoms such as a fast heartbeat, anxiety and tiredness.
Malabsorption Disorders
Conditions like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease impair the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, leading to weight loss despite normal eating habits.
Cancer
Digestive cancers such as those affecting the stomach or pancreas, can cause significant, unexplained weight loss, along with other symptoms like nausea and fatigue.
If you experience sudden weight loss without any apparent reason, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.
Can gastritis cause weight loss?
Yes, gastritis can cause weight loss. Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, which can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and a loss of appetite. This inflammation can interfere with the digestive process, making it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients properly.
The following are the key reasons why gastritis can lead to weight loss:
Reduced Appetite
The pain and discomfort caused by gastritis can make eating unpleasant, leading to a decrease in food intake and subsequent weight loss.
Impaired Digestion
Gastritis can disrupt the digestive process, making it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients effectively which can lead to weight loss and malnutrition.
Chronic Symptoms
Long-term inflammation from untreated gastritis can lead to further digestive issues, contributing to prolonged weight loss.
Complications
If left untreated, gastritis can lead to more severe complications like ulcers or stomach bleeding, which can exacerbate weight loss and cause additional symptoms.
If you’re experiencing gastritis, it’s essential to seek medical advice. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and effectively manage the condition.
How much weight loss is concerning?
A weight loss of 5% or more of your body weight within 6-12 months is typically concerning and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Weight loss that occurs unexpectedly or without effort can indicate an underlying health issue. For example, losing 5% or more of your body weight in a short period of time can be a sign of conditions such as thyroid imbalances, gastrointestinal disorders, infections, or even cancers. It’s important to seek medical advice if you notice significant weight loss, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or digestive issues. Early intervention can help identify the cause and prevent further complications.
What does a Gastroenterologist do for weight loss?
When unexplained weight loss is linked to gastrointestinal issues, a gastroenterologist is often the first specialist to consult. A gastroenterologist evaluates the digestive system to identify conditions affecting nutrient absorption, digestion or the functioning of the stomach and intestines.
The doctor may recommend the following tests to identify the cause of unexplained weight loss:
Endoscopy
A procedure where a camera is inserted into the digestive tract to check for conditions like ulcers, infections, or tumors.
Blood Tests
To look for signs of nutritional deficiencies or diseases like celiac disease.
Imaging Tests
CT scans or MRIs to evaluate the organs involved in digestion.
Once the cause is identified, the gastroenterologist will suggest the best treatment to address the underlying issue and prevent further weight loss.
Conclusion
Unexplained weight loss can be concerning, but identifying its causes is essential for taking the right steps toward recovery. Sudden weight loss can result from thyroid imbalances, digestive issues, or more serious conditions like cancer, each pointing to different underlying health problems.
Dr. Sanjoy Mandal, a trusted GI cancer doctor in Kolkata , can help you find the cause of unexplained weight loss.
Book your consultation today.