How to Explain Sudden Weight Loss

Sudden and drastic weight loss can be attributed to several things. A marked decrease in appetite or the start of a demanding fitness schedule can result in sudden weight loss. If neither of those things are a factor, a sudden weight loss can be indicative of health issues. It may be related to digestion issues, thyroid disorders, diabetes or cancer. Any time there is a sudden weight loss of 10 pounds or more, a medical professional should be seen.

Instructions

Instructions

• 1

  Have your thyroid tested. This can be done with a simple blood draw at the doctor's office. If too much of the thyroid hormone is produced, a condition called hyperthyroidism is often the result. Most people that suffer from hyperthyroidism experience sudden weight loss and usually continue to lose weight.

• 2

  Research the symptoms of Crohn's disease. It's a disease that affects the digestion system. It can cause the intestines to empty frequently which results in frequent diarrhea. Other side effects include vomiting, eye pain and skin rashes. If you are concerned that you may be suffering from Crohn's disease, see a doctor to begin the testing process. In order to diagnose Crohn's disease, the doctor will have to run multiple tests.

• 3

  Get your blood sugar tested to rule out diabetes. One of the side effects of diabetes is sudden and unexplained weight loss. The reason is that when blood sugars are too high, muscle is broken down. This results in an unhealthy and rapid weight loss. Diabetes can be extremely dangerous when it goes untreated.

• 4

  Consider being screened for cancer. This is one of the more uncommon explanations for sudden weight loss, but it should not be ruled out. When someone is afflicted with cancer, there is usually extreme fatigue that accompanies the sudden weight loss. If that is not the case, do not get screened for cancer until other conditions are ruled out.

• 5

  Research the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Per Dr. Marcelle Pick, one in five Americans suffers from IBS. Most of those that suffer from it are women. It can be difficult to diagnose as there is a range of symptoms. It can lead to sudden weight loss as it often leads to diarrhea.