CHANGE IN WEIGHT

A change of weight which is significant (i.e. half a stone or more) and which can not easily be explained by changes in diet or activity and which is continuing needs investigation. If you suspect that you have lost or gained weight then unless you actually feel unwell (in which case you should just make an appointment to see us) weigh yourself weekly for three or four weeks to see if there is a progressive change (there is little point in doing it more often as this is only likely to increase anxiety without yielding any more information). If you have established that there has been a change and it is continuing then make an appointment with your usual doctor.

CAUSES

Listed below are some of the commoner causes of weight loss or weight gain. This is not intended, however,to be a complete list

• WEIGHT LOSS
  • Diabetes often presents with loss of weight. It is usually associated with excessive thirst and passage of much more urine than usual plus infections such as thrush or skin infections, tiredness and generally feeling unwell. A urine test for sugar is a simple screening test that usually gives the answer - alternatively the doctor may arrange to do a blood sugar test. Click here to go to our diabetes page.
  • Overactive thyroid commonly causes weight loss despite a good appetite. Sufferers tend to feel very warm and are unable to tolerate the heat. They may also feel rather anxious and have a tremor. Female sufferers, who are in the majority, may also have menstrual irregularities. A simple blood test diagnoses the condition which is then, after further investigation, treated by medication alone or additionally involving radio-iodine or thyroid surgery.
  • Malabsorption. Certain bowel disorders can interfere with the proper digestion and absorption of the food leading, amongst other things, to weight loss. Usually associated with this is the passage of loose and often offensive and greasy stools which tend to float in the toilet.
  • Anxiety and depression commonly lead to loss of appetite and consequent weight loss. We come across this very frequently - nevertheless it is unwise to diagnose this yourself and we are always careful to ensure that there is no other explanation. Links.
  • Cancer is what many are afraid of when they are losing weight and some may delay seeking help, fearing the worst. The likelihood of this as a cause depends on a number of factors including the age of the patient, though it can be the reason in even a young patient. Don't let this deter you seeking help though - firstly because your fears may be groundless and there is another reason and secondly because even if it is cancer there is a lot to be gained by making a diagnosis as soon as possible and a lot to lose from a delay. Cancer links.
• WEIGHT GAIN
  • Underactive thyroid is a common condition, especially in women. It causes weight gain, dry skin, dry lifeless hair, tiredness, lethargy and an intolerance of the cold. A simple blood test diagnoses the condition which is treated by thyroid hormone supplement, usually for life.
  • Depression. Whilst the commoner response to depression may be to lose interest in food and so lose weight there are some who, on the contrary, may resort to comfort snacking and so put weight on.
  • Unexplained. After excluding an underactive thyroid and depressed mood it may be that there is no other explanation than an excess of intake over activity. As people get older they may tend to become less active as they give up sports or promotion at work may lead to a more sedentary lifestyle. At the same time food intake may increase with more money being available for dining out etc.. Our nurses can advise on diet and lifestyle changes.

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