Weight loss can be intentional, such as from dieting and exercise, or unintentional and be a manifestation of illness. Weight loss can result from a decrease in body fluid, muscle mass, or fat. A decrease in body fluid can come from medications, fluid loss, lack of fluid intake, or illnesses such as diabetes. A decrease in body fat can be intentionally caused by exercise and dieting, such as for overweight or obesity. Weight loss is normal after pregnancy. Other causes of weight loss include, but are not limited to, cancer, viral infection (such as CMV or HIV), gastroenteritis, parasite infection, depression, bowel diseases, and overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
The loss of weight and lack of nutrition associated with a chronic illness is referred to as cachexia. Unexplained, unintentional weight loss is often a result of illness and should be evaluated by a health-care professional
Addison disease is a hormonal (endocrine) disorder involving destruction of the adrenal glands (small glands adjacent to the
Alcoholism is a disease that includes alcohol craving and continued drinking despite repeated alcohol-related problems, such as
Dehydration is the excessive loss of body water. There are a number of causes of dehydration including heat exposure, prolonged
Obesity is the state of being well above one's normal weight. A person has traditionally been considered to be obese if they are
A stroke is an interruption of the blood supply to part of the brain caused by either a blood clot (ischemic) or bleeding
