Gastrointestinal Diseases
Unintentional or unexplained weight loss may be due to various conditions, as previously discussed. A healthcare provider may initially rule out the possibility of a gastrointestinal cause, which may affect one’s bowel movements. Weight loss can be associated with benign, malignant, and infectious conditions. Examples of benign gastrointestinal diseases include inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease. Infectious gastrointestinal diseases include viral, bacterial, and parasitic.
Adults with inflammatory bowel disease may experience abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. It can manifest as alternating diarrhea and constipation. This disturbance may also lead to altered eating habits and contribute to further weight loss. Celiac disease may also present with diarrhea, which signs of malabsorption may accompany. Anemia is a common consequence of malabsorption and is expected in those with this condition.
Routine blood tests and stool examinations are vital in detecting specific diagnoses since they may present similar symptoms. Stool examination may also show if bacteria or parasite is present and would give the healthcare provider an idea of the appropriate medications and management.
