Unintentional Weight Loss? 10 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Ignore it

People may lose weight without trying for several reasons. These can include relatively harmless factors like a high metabolism, poor eating habits, or a busy schedule. However, there are times when the reason for unintentional weight loss is more serious and needs to be addressed.

10 Possible Causes Of Unintentional Weight Loss

1. Depression

Depression and other mood disorders can affect your appetite. Though it might not feel like it, you won’t eat as much as your body needs to maintain your weight. Other symptoms to look out for include fatigue, loss of interest in your hobbies, feelings of hopelessness, and an inability to concentrate.

2. Digestive Disorders

If you’re eating well but aren’t seeing the results, the problem could be your digestive system. Disorders like ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and celiac disease can result in weight loss because you’re not absorbing the nutrients you need. Some other symptoms you might notice are nausea, chronic fatigue, persistent diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

3. Heart Failure

One consequence of heart failure is unexplained weight loss. Since the heart can’t supply the digestive system with sufficient blood, it won’t work efficiently. Some of the symptoms of heart failure are chronic fatigue, shortness of breath, a persistently fast heartbeat, and a constant cough.

4. Cancer

Different types of cancer will have varying symptoms, however, a growing tumor often increases how quickly you burn energy. That typically results in weight loss. A few of the common symptoms of cancer are unexplained pain, persistent fever, and fatigue.

5. Hyperthyroidism

Your thyroid gland is responsible for regulating multiple systems, including your metabolism. A hyperactive gland can mean that your body is burning more calories than you’re consuming. Other symptoms are tremors, heart palpitations, anxiety, and more frequent bowel movements.

6. Parkinson’s Disease

This degenerative brain disorder often causes digestive issues that lead to weight loss. A few of the other symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease are stiff muscles, tremors, and an imbalance while walking.

7. Pancreatitis

While the symptoms of acute pancreatitis happen quickly, the chronic form of the illness takes its time. One of the issues you’ll notice is unexplained weight loss. Some of the other symptoms include pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.