Weight loss (unexpected and unplanned)
Other common causes of unexpected weight loss
Unintentional weight loss doesn't always have an identifiable underlying cause but, in addition to the causes mentioned above,it's often the result of:
- depression
- an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) , or over-treating an underactive thyroid
- cancer
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Sudden, noticeable weight loss can happen after a stressful event, although it can also be a sign of a serious illness.
How much weight loss is a concern?
Your body weight can regularly fluctuate, but the persistent, unintentional loss of more than 5% of your weight over6 to 12 months is usually a cause for concern. Losing this much weight can be a sign
Other common causes of unexpected weight loss
Unintentional weight loss doesn't always have an identifiable underlying cause but, in addition to the causes mentioned above,it's often the result of: depression an overactive thyroid gland (hyp
Less common causes of unexpected weight loss
Less frequently, unexpected weight loss may be the result of: the side effects of certain medications alcohol misuse or drug misuse heart, kidney, lung or liver disease a problem with the glan
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