A Family Doctor's Tale - SUDDEN WEIGHT LOSS

DOC I HAVE SUDDEN WEIGHT LOSS

A sudden weight loss of 10kgm over 1 month is considered as abnormal unless the person is on a special weight loss regime. In the case of the sudden loss the most common causes must be considered before jumping to the diagnosis of possible cancer. The 5 most common causes of sudden weight loss are :
1. Diabetes
2. Gastritis or malabsorption
3. Hyperthyroidism
4. Tuberculosis
5. Stress
Also look for symptoms of thirst, frequent passage of urine, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, palpitations, trembling of hands and legs, chronic cough with night sweats and insomnia.
Exclude all these conditions first below looking for rarer conditions such as cancer.



Genetic factors

--------------------
Diabetes

Environmental factors
-----------------------------
Hyperthyroid
high metabolism -
Some people has a higher metabolic rate burn up more energy and hence loses weight
Stress is a factor


Gastritis or poor digestion


Pulmonary TB


Psychological factors
---------------------
Stress
burns up more energy
Anorexia nervosa
bulimia


Rare illnesses:
------------------
cancer


Loss of weight of 20 kgms in 1 month is serious

Health effects
------------------
weaker,
lethargy
tired

Emotional effects:
------------------

stress
depression



Diet:
-------------
Choose a  healthy diet with with reduce calories and which is nutritionally balanced
Take plenty of vegetables and fruits.
Eat more food which is high in fat and sugar

Medication:
------------------
look for and treat 
1.Diabetes
2.Hyperthyroid
3.Gastritis
4.Pulmonary Tuberculosis
5.Stress
6.Cancer