Involuntary weight loss, also known as unintentional or unexplained weight loss, may mystify those who experience it, particularly when no additional symptoms appear and no dietary or lifestyle changes have been made. It may also result from more obvious triggers, such as diarrhea or cancer treatment. All cases of involuntary weight loss should be discussed with a medical doctor.
Chronic Diarrhea
Chronic diarrhea refers to loose, frequent stools that persist longer than two weeks. When fluids and nutrients are flushed from the body excessively, involuntary weight loss may result. Since chronic diarrhea may indicate a variety of conditions, thorough examination by doctors and discussion of all related symptoms are important. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, chronic bloody diarrhea is most often affiliated with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), such as ulcerative colitis, which affects the colon (large intestine) and Crohn's disease, which causes inflammation throughout the digestive tract. Additional, less common causes include infections, radiation therapy, colon cancer and polyps (non-cancerous masses).
Cancer and Cancer Treatments
Involuntary weight loss may occur as a first noted symptom of cancer. Such weight loss may result from cancer cells using much of the body's energy derived from food, or from substances cancer releases into the body that cause irregular immune system response. According to the American Cancer Society, unexplained weight loss of 10 lbs. or more may appear as a primary symptom of cancers that affect the esophagus, pancreas, stomach or lungs. Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy often cause nausea, vomiting and reduced appetite. All of these factors may also contribute to involuntary weight loss.
Depression
Depression is characterized by low, or depressive, emotions that detract from a person's ability to function normally. Loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss are common symptoms of the disorder. Since people with depression often lack motivation to partake pleasurable activities, such as eating, or may experience lethargy and intense desire to sleep, healthy eating habits may fall to the wayside. Weight loss can exacerbate other symptoms of depression since failure to consume appropriate amounts of food and nutrients can negatively affect a person's moods. Forms of depression that may affect a person's weight include major depression, seasonal affective disorder and postpartum depression.
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