Unexpected Weight Loss In Elderly

Unexplained weight loss in seniors is not a good sign and you should always discuss any dramatic changes with a physician.

Unexpected weight loss in elderly. Although unexplained weight loss in the elderly can have myriad causes an undirected shotgun approach to laboratory tests and other diagnostic studies is rarely fruitful. Your body is made of fat mass and. Unexplained weight loss can be caused by conditions that range from mild to very serious.

Here the weight loss was more subtle but still clinically significant. Unintentional weight loss i e more than a 5 reduction in body weight within six to 12 months occurs in 15 to 20 of older adults and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality 1 in. One of your limbs may even look smaller than the other.

Even unexplained weight loss of less than 5 percent of body weight or 10 pounds may be the sign of a serious condition in older people. If you are an older adult looking for a new doctor or a caregiver looking for a new doctor for your older family member contact stellis health. The first step toward ensuring your aging loved one regains their health is to determine the cause of their unintentional weight loss.

Muscle loss or muscle wasting can lead to unexpected weight loss the major symptom is muscle weakness. Weight loss can cause real health consequences such as weakness sagging skin which leaves room for infection and injury and may even put bone health at risk since heavier people tend to have stronger bones. One older adult s weight loss may look like another s on the surface but be completely different in terms of its origins and have different implications for their long term health.

Muscle loss is exacerbated by rapid weight loss which can cause serious obstacles to maintaining mobility and independence for seniors.