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what can cause rapid weight loss in a man
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Question #13692
2 days ago
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what can cause rapid weight loss in a man - #13692

Sai

I am really anxious about something that’s been going on with me. Over the past month, I’ve lost around 15 pounds without even trying, and I barely notice it until I put on my clothes, which are just hanging off me now! I wouldn’t say I was overweight to begin with but this rapid weight loss in a man seems unusual, right? At first, I thought maybe it was just the new gym routine or stress from work, like deadlines piling up, and I thought, okay, it could be the start of a good thing. But now, it actually worries me because I’v also noticed constant tiredness, and I feel like my appetite isn’t what it used to be. I’ve done some googling, and I know that there are a lot of things that could be related to rapid weight loss in a man, like thyroid issues or maybe even more serious stuff. I just went to get some bloodwork done, but have to wait a few days for the results. In the meantime, should I be doing something differently, like changing my diet or lifestyle? Or is it likely that this weight loss won’t turn out to be serious? I just keep thinking about all the possible things that could be causing this and trying not to panic. What can cause rapid weight loss in a man like me?

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Doctors’ responses

Rapid weight loss in a man like yourself can indeed have various underlying causes, ranging from something as benign as increased physical activity or dietary changes to more concerning medical issues. The symptoms you describe, like fatigue and decreased appetite alongside weight loss, can point to several possibilities. Thyroid disorders, particularly hyperthyroidism, are known for causing weight loss despite a not necessarily lowering dietary intake, often with symptoms like jitteriness or feeling hot. Other endocrine issues, like diabetes, can also cause unexpected weight changes along with increased thirst or urination, so it’s good you’re having bloodwork done. Malabsorptive conditions, such as celiac disease, could also be at play here, affecting nutrient absorption in your gut. Infections like tuberculosis or HIV could also lead to these symptoms, though they’d typically be accompanied by other signs like persistent fever or night sweats. More severe worries, like certain cancers, can sometimes present this way too, especially when combined with increased fatigue and appetite loss. Based on your description, you should definitely let your doctor know about these symptoms, so they consider a broad spectrum of possibilities in their diagnosis. In the meantime, focusing on balanced nutrition, even small meals more frequently if necessary, and staying hydrated is key. Keeping track of any new symptoms and bringing them to your doctor’s attention will help in getting to the root of the issue. Right now, while you wait for your results, try to avoid making any major changes to your routine or diet without medical guidance, as it might obscure the true cause when you have your follow-up consultation. If you suddenly develop more severe symptoms, such as chest pain or breathlessness, seek medical attention promptly. Your emphasis on professional diagnosis over self-management is important here.

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