1. Sign of a Larger Problem
Although weight fluctuates normally on a day to day basis, sudden and rapid weight loss might be a symptom of something serious. Your thyroid could be to blame for an imbalance of hormones. Medications that cause you to drop pounds including prescribed steroids, amphetamines, hormones or antidepressants. Sudden weight loss can be the first sign of developing cancer or diabetes even if you feel fine otherwise. If it is accompanied by gastrointestinal problems then conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, celiac or Crohn's disease could be the cause. Tragic events, age, menopause or diagnosed depression and other mental or eating disorders can decrease weight loss too quickly as well.
2. Don't Ignore Your Roomy Clothes
If you have unexplained weight loss of more than 10% if your bodyweight, a trip to the doctor should be first on your list. Hormonal and thyroid issues can be tested with a series of tests. Thyroid symptoms will also include a flu like ache, dry hair and Diabetes and Cancer will show up in blood tests. If the extreme weight loss is digestive then you should visit a gastroenterologist.
3. Help is on the Way
Most of the disease or condition related causes for rapid weight loss can be treated with prescribed drugs. For digestive problems, your doctor may prescribe an enzyme solution or anti-spasmodic medication. A diet regimen will likely be recommended. Infections will be treated with an antibiotic. Current medications will be adjusted or changed for hormonal or steroidal causes. Diabetic diagnosis will prompt a change in eating habits first and possibly a prescription for insulin treatment.
4. Live Saving Treatment for Eating Disorders
An eating disorder that has developed over time or is in response to grief or post-traumatic stress will be treated with diet and counseling. Elderly people are particularly at risk for depression related eating disorders. Some doctors are using light, music and pet therapy to encourage older people to feel well enough to enjoy their food again. Teenage girls are another target group for rapid weight loss treatment. Physically able to enjoy food, they are mentally blocked by misconceptions of body image and a desire to fit in. Counseling and positive life technique training has shown to be successful if the inclination for anorexia or bulimia is caught and treated early along with the support of family.
5. Cancer Survivors Eating Their Way to Health
Proper nutritional support is important to rebuild the immune system and gain weight after chemotherapy or radiation treatments that are accompanied by extreme nausea. Patients are advised to take advantage of a morning appetite and make that the biggest meal of the day. Liquid weight gaining supplements and drinks can be taken later in the day. If a sick feeling prohibits meals, patients are encouraged to find one or two items they enjoy and eat them regularly until they are attracted to additional foods.
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