If you are not consuming enough calories to meet your body's energy needs, you may lose weight rapidly. This can happen due to reduced appetite, changes in diet, or an underlying medical issue.
An overactive thyroid can increase your metabolism, causing rapid weight loss, along with symptoms like anxiety, sweating, and palpitations.
Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to excessive thirst, increased urination, and weight loss. High blood sugar levels can prevent the body from using glucose effectively, leading to the breakdown of fat stores for energy.
Certain infections or illnesses, such as tuberculosis, HIV, and certain cancers, can cause unexplained weight loss. The body's immune response and inflammation can increase energy expenditure.
Conditions like depression, anxiety, or eating disorders can lead to changes in appetite and eating habits, resulting in unintentional weight loss.
Conditions like celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can affect nutrient absorption and digestion, leading to weight loss.
Some medications, such as certain antidepressants, stimulants, and chemotherapy drugs, may cause weight loss as a side effect.
Unexplained weight loss can be an early symptom of various cancers, as the disease can alter metabolism and cause loss of appetite.