Unintentional weight loss is a decrease in body weight that is not voluntary. In other words, you did not try to loss the weight by dieting or exercising.
See: Intentional weight loss
There are many causes of unintentional weight loss. Some are listed below:
Note: This list may not be all inclusive
Practice moderation and maintain a balanced diet and exercise program. For weight loss caused by oral or dental problems, see the dentist. For weight loss caused by disease, follow your health care provider's prescribed therapy to treat the cause.
Call your health care provider if:
The health care provider will perform a physical exam and measure your weight. You will be asked questions about your medical history and symptoms, including:
The following tests may be done:
Psychological counseling may be recommended in cases where anorexia nervosa or depression is the cause of the weight loss. For weight loss caused by a chronic illness, tube feeding may be needed in order to maintain nutrition and prevent edema, poor healing, and muscle wasting.
You may need to see a dietitian for nutritional counseling.
Loss of weight; Losing weight without trying
Bistrian BR. Nutritional assessment. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 233.
Noel MB, Thompson M, Wadland Wc, Holtrop JS. Nutrition and family medicine. In: Rakel RE, ed. Textbook of Family Medicine. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2007:chap 48.
Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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