Weight Loss: Causes and Concerns in Family Medicine - Family Medicine

More Info

---

Weight loss can be a complex issue, particularly when it occurs rapidly or without a clear cause. In your case, a drop from 89 kg to 79 kg over a few months, while maintaining a good appetite, raises several important considerations.
Firstly, it’s essential to understand that weight loss can be influenced by various factors, including dietary changes, physical activity, psychological stress, and underlying medical conditions. Given that you mentioned a reduction in food intake due to the pandemic, this could certainly contribute to your weight loss. However, the fact that you have undergone tests for blood sugar and thyroid function, and that these results were normal, is reassuring.
The presence of ulcers and polyps found during your endoscopy and colonoscopy is noteworthy. While benign polyps are common and usually not a cause for concern, ulcers can lead to symptoms such as pain, nausea, or changes in appetite, which could indirectly affect your weight. If these ulcers are causing discomfort or affecting your ability to eat normally, that could explain some of the weight loss. It’s crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider regarding the management of these ulcers to ensure they heal properly and do not lead to further complications.

In terms of whether your weight loss is considered normal, a loss of 10 kg over a few months can be within a normal range, especially if it is not accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, or significant changes in your daily activities. However, if the weight loss is unintentional and you are not actively trying to lose weight, it is essential to investigate further. Unintentional weight loss can sometimes indicate underlying health issues, including metabolic disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, or even malignancies.

You mentioned that your weight fluctuates between 79 kg and 80 kg, which suggests some stability in your weight after the initial loss. This could indicate that your body is adjusting to a new set point, but it’s still important to monitor this closely. If you find that your weight continues to drop or if you experience any new symptoms, further evaluation may be warranted.

In terms of additional tests, it might be beneficial to consider the following:
1. Nutritional Assessment: A consultation with a registered dietitian can help evaluate your dietary intake and ensure you are meeting your nutritional needs, particularly if you have experienced changes in appetite or food preferences.

2. Gastrointestinal Evaluation: Since you have ulcers and polyps, follow-up testing or imaging may be necessary to monitor these conditions and ensure they are not contributing to further weight loss.

3. Psychological Evaluation: If there are any concerns about stress, anxiety, or depression, which can also impact appetite and weight, speaking with a mental health professional could be beneficial.

4. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel: This can provide further insights into your metabolic health and help identify any imbalances that could be contributing to weight changes.

5. Follow-up with your Primary Care Physician: Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider can help monitor your weight and overall health, ensuring that any changes are addressed promptly.

In conclusion, while a weight loss of 10 kg can be normal under certain circumstances, it is crucial to ensure that it is not indicative of a more serious underlying issue. Continued monitoring, along with appropriate medical follow-up, will help you maintain your health and address any concerns that may arise. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any changes in your weight, appetite, or overall well-being.