In many cases, weight loss occurs intentionally as a result of dietary or activity changes. Weight loss as a result of implementing healthy lifestyle changes is a sign of good or improving health. However, uncontrollable weight loss or significant weight loss that occurs unintentionally can be a sign of an underlying health condition or a medication side effect.
Identification
Weight loss becomes a concern when nothing was done to intentionally lose the weight. According to MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, a loss of 5 percent or more of total body weight over six to 12 months should be evaluated by a physician if the weight loss cannot be explained. A physician can help identify the cause by asking questions about medications, dietary changes, lifestyle changes or changes in general health. In addition, a physician will perform a physical examination and request certain laboratory tests if an underlying disease is suspected.
Psychiatric Medications and Weight Loss
Certain psychiatric medications may cause unintentional weight loss as a side effect of the medication. For adults who struggle with weight, this may be a desired effect. However, weight should be monitored closely in children and underweight adults. Medications for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder such as methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine may cause significant reductions in appetite along with an increase in activity resulting in unintentional weight loss. Normal appetite typically returns when the medication wears off, and undesired weight loss can be avoided by timing medication doses after meals.
Thyroid Medication and Weight Loss
Thyroid stimulating medications may cause unintentional weight loss, which should be evaluated by a physician. Levothyroxine is a synthetic thyroid hormone that is often prescribed for an under active thyroid gland. According to Drugs.com, side effects from levothyroxine are rare. However, taking a dosage that is too high or increase the dose too quickly can result in over-stimulation of the thyroid. Symptoms of thyroid over-stimulation include weight loss, palpitations, nervousness, sweating, increased heart rate, flushing, fever and fatigue.
Medical Conditions and Weight Loss
An underlying medical condition may cause unexplained weight loss. According to MayoClinic.com, conditions such as cancer, AIDS, gastrointestinal disorders, thyroid or adrenal disorders, infections, cardiovascular or lung disease and kidney disease may all cause unexplained weight loss. Certain disorders, such as kidney disease, cause unexplained weight loss due to nausea and vomiting. Other disorders, such as certain gastrointestinal disorders, may cause unexplained weight loss even when appetite remains normal because the body does not absorb nutrients properly.
Considerations
The causes of uncontrollable weight loss are varied, which can make identifying the cause difficult even for physicians. Some techniques can be used to help pinpoint specific causes for weight loss. Keeping a journal detailing the amount and type of all foods consumed daily as well as all physical activity performed can help shed light on any dietary or activity changes. In addition, writing down any emotional changes, such as anxiety or depressed mood, can help identify psychological factors. Finally, keeping track of other physical symptoms, such as fatigue, body aches or nausea, can assist in finding medical causes of unintentional weight loss.
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