Though most people aren't upset about losing a few pounds, it can be disconcerting to lose a significant amount of weight when you haven't made any obvious dietary changes. While it is normal for weight to fluctuate, rapidly losing more than 5 percent of your body weight could indicate that there is an underlying health issue behind the changes, according to the Mayo Clinic. Several conditions can cause weight loss, and some are more serious than others.
Medications
Many types of medications have weight loss or suppressed appetite as side effects. If you recently started a new medication and have noticed a significant weight loss, consult your doctor.
Diabetes
Diabetes affects the way your body breaks down food. Specifically, diabetes prevents your body from breaking down glucose. You can experience weight loss if your diabetes is not managed properly or has yet to be diagnosed, because your body is not processing calories appropriately.
Gastrointestinal Diseases
Conditions such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease affect the way your body processes and absorbs nutrients from food. If you are suffering from a gastrointestinal disease that prevents your body from efficiently processing food, you may notice unexplained weight loss.
Cancer
Cancer itself, as well as cancer treatments, can both lead to weight loss. If you are undergoing cancer treatments, discuss the side effects of the medications you are taking with your doctor.
Depression
One common symptom of depression is a loss of appetite. If you become depressed and are eating significantly less than you normally do, weight loss will probably occur. Consult your doctor if you feel your weight loss may be caused by depression.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism causes your body's metabolism to speed up, meaning that your body will process foods too quickly. While a fast metabolism is usually thought to be a good thing, a too-fast metabolism can lead to unhealthy weight loss.
Advanced Cardiovascular Disease
If you are in an advanced stage of a cardiovascular disease, such as congestive heart failure, you may experience weight loss. This could be due to nausea, medications or your body's inability to appropriately process foods.
Infections
Human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, and tuberculosis are two infections that commonly cause weight loss. A doctor can help determine if an infection is present, what type of infection it is and what treatment is needed.
Age
As you age, it is normal for your appetite to decrease. Age-related conditions also can make the physical act of eating more difficult because of troubles with chewing, swallowing or coordination. These conditions may lead to weight loss.
Change in Eating Habits
Small changes in your eating habits could be having large effect on your weight. If you notice a significant weight loss, try to note whether you've been eating differently. Even changing from regular to diet soda, if you are a regular soda drinker, could cause noticeable weight loss.
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