What Are the Causes of Sudden Weight Loss?

A person can suddenly lose weight for many reasons, including stress and a busy schedule. Sudden weight loss can be the result of digestive diseases, alcoholism or drug abuse (especially amphetamines). Sudden weight loss could also mean a person has diabetes, chronic diarrhea, has become dehydrated, has anorexia or has cancer.

Definition

When a person suddenly loses weight without trying to lose weight, something may be wrong. A person should see a doctor if she loses more than 5 percent of her total weight in a month or 10 percent or more in six to 12 months.

Addison's Disease

Addison's disease is an endocrine disorder that occurs in all age groups and afflicts both men and women. It is characterized by weight loss, muscle weakness, fatigue and low blood pressure. The body doesn't produce enough cortisol, a hormone that regulates metabolism. When cortisol is inadequate, a person can lose weight.

Anorexia

Anorexia is an eating disorder that is also a psychological disorder that often begins by dieting to lose weight. Over time, the weight loss becomes a way to have control over a person's life by restricting what is eaten. It becomes an obsession, and the person becomes painfully thin, although she may not perceive her body as others do.

Cancer

Breast, bladder, kidney, thyroid, stomach, colon--all these types of cancer will cause a person to lose weight. A person may not know that he has cancer and many lose weight before the initial diagnosis. That is why when a person suddenly loses weight for an unknown reason, it is wise to seek professional medical care.

Dehydration

Dehydration causes weight loss because the human body is 75 percent water. Water loss is caused by sweating, urinating, breathing, diarrhea and vomiting. A person must replace the lost water to keep from becoming dehydrated.

Bowel Problems

Changes in bowel habits due to illness can cause weight loss. Diarrhea, especially if it lasts more than two days or is bloody, can indicate stomach or intestinal disorders, such as ulcerative colitis, or colon cancer.

Considerations

Someone experiencing sudden weight loss should see a doctor for a diagnosis. It could mean that the person is simply stressed out or it could mean he has a serious medical condition.