Definition

     Unintentional weight loss is a decrease in body weight that is not voluntary. In other words, you did not try to loss the weight by dieting or exercising.

Common Causes 

     There are many causes of unintentional weight loss. Some are listed below:

• AIDS

• Cancer

• Depression

• Diarrhea that is chronic (lasts a long time)

• Drugs, including amphetamines, chemotherapeutic agents, laxative abuse, and thyroid medications

• Drug abuse

• Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa and bulimia

• Hyperthyroidism

• Infection

• Loss of appetite

• Malnutrition

• Manipulative behavior (in children)

• Painful mouth sores, mouth braces, or a loss of teeth that prevent you from eating normally

• Smoking

     Note: This list may not be all inclusive

Symptoms

• Unintentional weight loss

Screening and Diagnostics

     The following tests may be done:

• Nutritional assessment

• Blood tests including a chemistry profile

Treatment

     Psychological counseling may be recommended in cases where anorexia nervosa or depression is the cause of the weight loss. For weight loss caused by a chronic illness, tube feeding may be needed in order to maintain nutrition and to prevent edema, poor healing, and muscle wasting.

     It may be necessary to see a dietitian for nutritional counseling.