Unexplained Weight Loss In Elderly Woman

Let s just go ahead and get the c word out of the way.

Unexplained weight loss in elderly woman. Often a combination of things results in a general decline in your health and a related weight loss. If someone reports abrupt weight loss but denies any change in their food intake their. You are good to point out that it is first of all important to discover the cause s and not jump to conclusions or a solution before really delving in.

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. 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. What are some of the causes of unintentional weight loss in the elderly.

Unexplained weight loss in seniors is not a good sign and you should always discuss any dramatic changes with a physician. Estimates suggest 13 3 of the population experiences unintentional weight loss and up to 7 experiences a loss exceeding 5 of baseline weight. It might indicate an underlying condition.

27 of frail elders over the age of 65 experience involuntary weight loss. A 73 year old woman presents to your clinic complaining of unintentional weight loss. 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.

Sometimes a specific cause isn t found. Unexplained weight loss or losing weight without trying can be a cause for concern. What are the causes of unexplained weight loss.

Seniors are more at risk for these causes if they live in a long term care facility do not receive frequent and adequate healthcare checkups or have a family history of any of these causes. Usually an unrecognized cancer will have other symptoms or abnormalities of laboratory tests in addition to unexplained weight loss. 1 elders are disproportionately impacted.