Symptoms

Weight Loss

What it is:

Unintentional weight loss occurs when a person loses body weight without making any deliberate changes to their diet, physical activity, or daily routine.

Common causes:

  • Stressful life events or mental health struggles such as anxiety and depression.
  • Hormonal variations or digestive conditions affecting food processing.
  • Reduced appetite or side effects from specific medications.

Self-care:

  • Keep a daily record of your weight, what you eat, and any physical symptoms.
  • Try to eat small, regular, nutrient-dense meals throughout the day.
  • Focus on gentle stress management techniques while arranging a professional evaluation.

When to seek help:

Visit a local health post, PHC, or hospital if you are losing weight continuously without trying. Promptly seek medical advice if weight loss is accompanied by red flags such as a persistent cough lasting over 3 weeks, fever, night sweats, excessive thirst, or an unusually fast heartbeat. For urgent medical crises, call 102 for an ambulance.

If symptoms suggest a serious emergency, call 102 for an ambulance where available.

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