Unexplained Weight Loss and/or Changes in Appetite – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Unexplained Weight Loss and/or Changes in Appetite – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Emirates Hospitals Group

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we understand that unexplained weight loss or significant changes in appetite can be concerning and may indicate an underlying medical condition. While gradual weight fluctuations are normal, sudden or unintentional weight loss should not be ignored. Identifying the cause is essential for effective management and overall health.

Causes of Unexplained Weight Loss and/or Changes in Appetite

Several factors can contribute to unexpected weight loss or appetite changes, including:

• Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders –

  • Hyperthyroidism – An overactive thyroid increases metabolism, leading to weight loss despite normal or increased appetite.
  • Diabetes – Uncontrolled diabetes can cause sudden weight loss due to improper glucose utilization.
  • Adrenal Insufficiency (Addison’s Disease) – A hormonal imbalance that leads to reduced appetite and unintentional weight loss.

• Gastrointestinal Conditions –

  • Malabsorption Syndromes – Conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or chronic pancreatitis impair nutrient absorption, leading to weight loss.
  • Peptic Ulcers – Ulcers in the stomach or intestines may cause pain, nausea, and reduced appetite.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) – Chronic acid reflux can lead to discomfort after eating and reduced food intake.

• Chronic Infections and Inflammatory Diseases –

  • Tuberculosis (TB) – A persistent bacterial infection that causes weight loss and appetite changes.
  • HIV/AIDS – Can lead to chronic inflammation, muscle wasting, and appetite disturbances.
  • Chronic Inflammatory Diseases – Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can trigger metabolic changes and weight loss.

• Neurological and Psychiatric Conditions –

  • Depression and Anxiety – Mental health disorders can lead to reduced appetite and significant weight loss.
  • Dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease – Cognitive decline can lead to changes in eating patterns and unintentional weight loss.

• Cancer and Systemic Conditions –

  • Cancers of the Digestive System – Cancers affecting the stomach, pancreas, or colon can cause unexplained weight loss and appetite loss.
  • Leukemia and Lymphoma – Blood cancers may present with weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats.
  • Chronic Kidney Disease or Liver Disease – Advanced organ dysfunction can affect metabolism and appetite.

• Medications and Substance Use –

  • Certain Medications – Chemotherapy, antidepressants, and some antibiotics can cause appetite changes.
  • Substance Abuse – Alcohol or drug use may lead to poor nutrition and weight loss.

Diagnosis of Unexplained Weight Loss and/or Changes in Appetite

A thorough evaluation at Emirates Hospitals Group is essential to determine the underlying cause. Diagnostic methods may include:

• Medical History and Physical Examination – Assessing symptoms, recent lifestyle changes, and medical conditions.
• Blood Tests – Checking thyroid function, glucose levels, infection markers, and organ function.
• Imaging Studies (X-ray, CT Scan, or MRI) – Evaluating possible tumors, infections, or organ dysfunction.
• Endoscopy or Colonoscopy – Assessing gastrointestinal conditions such as ulcers, cancers, or malabsorption disorders.
• Psychological Assessment – Screening for depression, anxiety, or eating disorders.

Treatment for Unexplained Weight Loss and/or Changes in Appetite

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Nutritional Support – Dietary modifications, meal planning, and supplementation to restore healthy weight.
• Medication Adjustments – Managing side effects of existing medications that may impact appetite.
• Psychological Therapy – Counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for stress, anxiety, or depression-related appetite loss.
• Treatment of Underlying Conditions – Managing chronic diseases such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or gastrointestinal disorders.
• Cancer Management – If cancer is diagnosed, appropriate oncology treatment, including chemotherapy or surgery, may be required.

If you are experiencing unexplained weight loss or appetite changes, seeking expert care at Emirates Hospitals Group can help diagnose the cause and provide an effective treatment plan to restore health and well-being.

Related Treatments

• Type 2 Diabetes Clinic
• Leukemia
• Kidney Cancer
• Stomach/Gastric Cancer
• Oncology
• Hematology
• Pancreatic Cancer