Unexplained Weight Loss: When to Seek Medical Advice?

Q: Unexplained Weight Loss: When to Seek Medical Advice?

Dear Mr. <br>Hsu：<br>1. <br>There are many reasons for weight loss; common diseases include hyperthyroidism, diabetes, cancer, depression, schizophrenia, anorexia nervosa, chronic peptic ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic pancreatitis, esophageal stricture, hepatitis, an

Weight loss

The last time I measured my weight was around March or April of this year, and the result was 59 kilograms.
Before that, I had maintained a weight of 56 kilograms for a full seven years.
I was initially relieved that I finally started to gain weight, but today my weight dropped directly to 54.8 kilograms.
Should I consider further examinations? Currently, I plan to weigh myself at a fixed time every day, and if there is a significant change within a month, I will see a doctor.
(Note: My height is approximately 176 cm, and there have been no changes in my lifestyle, diet, or exercise habits between the two weight measurements.
I usually do not exercise, my diet is relatively balanced, but I do not have a habit of eating breakfast.
I have almost eliminated sugar from my diet, and I only indulge in snacks and sugary drinks very rarely, perhaps once every couple of months.)

Xu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/10

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Mr.
Hsu:
1.
There are many reasons for weight loss; common diseases include hyperthyroidism, diabetes, cancer, depression, schizophrenia, anorexia nervosa, chronic peptic ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic pancreatitis, esophageal stricture, hepatitis, and cirrhosis, among others.
Of course, there are also other rare diseases that could be a possibility.
2.
In medicine, abnormal weight loss is generally defined as a loss of 10% of body weight over six months without intentional weight loss, or a rapid decline of 5% of body weight within one month.
3.
Please pay attention to changes in your weight; if you experience a significant and meaningful decrease, it is advisable to discuss this with your primary care physician or visit the outpatient metabolic department of a regional hospital.

Reply Date: 2022/08/10

More Info

Unexplained weight loss can be a concerning symptom, especially when it occurs without any significant changes in lifestyle, diet, or exercise habits. In your case, you mentioned that your weight dropped from 59 kg to 54.8 kg over a relatively short period, which is a loss of approximately 4.2% of your body weight. While fluctuations in weight can occur for various benign reasons, such as changes in hydration levels or minor dietary adjustments, a consistent and unexplained drop in weight warrants further investigation.

When to Seek Medical Advice
1. Significant Weight Loss: Generally, losing more than 5% of your body weight in a short period (typically within 6-12 months) without trying to lose weight is a red flag. Since you have lost about 4.2% in a short time, it is advisable to monitor your weight closely over the next month. If the trend continues or accelerates, you should consult a healthcare professional.

2. Associated Symptoms: Pay attention to any accompanying symptoms. If you experience fatigue, weakness, changes in appetite, gastrointestinal issues (such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation), or any other unusual symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice sooner rather than later.

3. Changes in Mental Health: Unexplained weight loss can sometimes be linked to psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or depression. If you notice changes in your mood, sleep patterns, or overall mental well-being, it is crucial to address these issues with a healthcare provider.

4. Medical History: If you have a history of chronic illnesses, autoimmune disorders, or any significant health issues, it is wise to consult with a physician. Certain conditions can lead to unintended weight loss, and early diagnosis is key to effective management.

Recommended Actions
- Keep a Weight Diary: As you mentioned, tracking your weight daily can help you identify patterns. Note any changes in your diet, exercise, and overall health during this period.

- Evaluate Your Diet: While you mentioned that your diet is balanced, consider consulting a registered dietitian to ensure you are meeting your nutritional needs. Skipping breakfast and significantly reducing sugar intake can impact your metabolism and energy levels. A dietitian can help you create a meal plan that supports your health goals while ensuring you receive adequate nutrition.

- Consider a Medical Evaluation: If your weight continues to decline or if you develop any concerning symptoms, schedule an appointment with your primary care physician. They may recommend blood tests or other diagnostic procedures to rule out underlying medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, gastrointestinal diseases, or malignancies.

- Lifestyle Adjustments: Incorporating regular physical activity, even light exercise such as walking, can help improve your overall health and may stabilize your weight. Additionally, consider establishing a routine that includes breakfast, as this can help regulate your metabolism and energy levels throughout the day.

Conclusion
In summary, while a slight weight loss may not be immediately alarming, it is essential to monitor your situation closely. If you notice further weight loss or any concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Early intervention can be crucial in identifying any underlying health issues and ensuring that you maintain a healthy weight and overall well-being.

Similar Q&A

Unexplained Weight Loss: When to Seek Medical Advice?

Hello, doctor. Since January of this year, my weight has dropped from 43 kg to 39 kg, but I haven't been exercising much, and I eat three meals a day without any issues with appetite. Should I see a doctor about this? (In February, I had an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy a...

Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, abnormal weight loss is defined as a decrease of 3% in one month, 5% in three months, or over 10% in six months. It is recommended to visit a hospital for further evaluation.

Understanding Unexplained Weight Gain: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello, doctor: I would like to ask about my weight issue. My appetite hasn't particularly increased, and I have regular meals without consuming sweets. I also go to the gym with a professional trainer three days a week, but my weight has still inexplicably increased. Should ...

Dr. Cai Dongqi reply Family Medicine
Hello, your symptoms do not appear to indicate any specific disease, but you can monitor your blood sugar, lipid levels, and blood pressure through health check-ups. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Unintentional Weight Loss: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello, doctor. This inquiry is on behalf of my mother. She is currently 56 years old and has experienced a weight loss from 61 kg to around 56 kg over the past 5 to 6 months, without any dieting or exercise. My mother is a teacher and often skips lunch due to her dislike of the s...

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine
Hello! It is recommended to visit the Metabolism Clinic for consultation.

Unexplained Weight Loss in Mom: Causes and When to Seek Help

Recently, I have lost weight from around 60 kg to about 50 kg, and I don't know why. I have also become very emotional and feel weak all over, with numbness in my tongue, hands, and feet. I would like to know what could be the cause. Could it be an autonomic nervous system i...

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine
Hello, unexplained weight loss is certainly a reason to seek medical attention. It is advisable to consult your family physician for an initial evaluation. Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations. Chang...