Unexplained weight loss is one of the top things being discussed by leading health and fitness experts these days. What do we mean by unexplained weight loss? Unexplained weight loss basically means a loss of 10 pounds or at least 5% of your total body weight without making any extra effort. Unexplained weight loss usually means body weight reduction which occurs without any intentions on your part. This is certainly not a healthy situation to be in and necessitates a careful study of the possible reasons for the same. Here are five reasons for unexplained weight loss.
Diabetes
A metabolic disorder generated through high levels of blood glucose, diabetes results in the production of insufficient insulin in the body. Sometimes, it can arise out of improper responses of your body to insulin as well. Some of the symptoms of diabetes are sudden weight loss which is usually taken to mean type 1 diabetes. Other symptoms may be intense hunger pangs, weight gain, numbness, fatigue and so on.
Depression
Depression is another reason for unexplained weight loss which figures high on the list of its symptoms. This is usually brought about by feelings of anger, sadness, frustration, loss and other negative thoughts. Other symptoms include irritability, hopelessness and suicidal tendencies.
Thyroid malfunctions
Thyroid malfunctions can sometimes be responsible for sudden weight loss. The thyroid gland regulates body metabolism and the hormone influences calorie burning, heart rate and digestion. The hormone calcitonin is also produced by the thyroid gland and this regulates calcium levels in the body. Rapid weight loss is one of the prominent symptoms along with bulging eyes, palpitations, rapid sweating, reduced libido, panic attacks and mood swings. Sudden weight loss can happen due to overactive hormones.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
COPD or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is basically a lung ailment that results in the blockage of airflow and this restricts breathing abilities as well. This mostly happens due to inflammation of the bronchial tube lining. This is usually known as chronic bronchitis. Normal breathing becomes more tedious and problematic due to the destruction of the air sacs present in the lungs. This condition is known as emphysema and there are various symptoms of the same including wheezing, blueness of the fingernail ends and lips, tightness of the chest, infections of the respiratory tract and sudden weight loss as well.
Cancer
Cancer mostly happens due to abnormal growth and development of body cells. Cancer can affect the bone marrow, immune cells, supportive tissues, cartilage, blood vessels and many other vital body components. Sudden weight loss is one of the frightening signs of cancer which is usually accompanied by fatigue and lethargy.
Sudden and rapid weight loss can be an indicator of many problems and diseases. You should be careful in case of sudden and unexplained weight loss and consult medical and health professionals with regard to the possible causes of the same. Healthy weight loss is only possible in a safe and sustained manner.