The doctor talked about the differences between weight loss in Crohn's disease and thyroid diseases

Unexplained weight loss always requires careful diagnosis, as it may indicate serious illnesses. Endocrinologist, internist, nutritionist of the highest category of the Scientific Research Center NCC No. 2 of the Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution "RNC named after Academician of B.V. Petrovsky, Evgenia Ivanova, told Izvestia on September 24 that thyroid diseases and Crohn's disease are common causes of this condition.

In diseases of the thyroid gland, such as thyrotoxicosis or hyperthyroidism, the body produces excessive amounts of hormones T3 and T4, which causes an acceleration of metabolic processes. This leads to the burning of calories at a high rate, even if a person eats more than usual. The result is a loss of fat and muscle mass, despite an increased appetite.

As for Crohn's disease, the specialist added, weight loss in this disease is due to several factors. This is a violation of the absorption of nutrients due to an inflamed intestinal wall, an energetically costly chronic inflammatory process and often a decreased appetite due to abdominal pain. Nutrients are not absorbed properly, which leads to energy deficiency and weight loss.

The doctor also explained how to distinguish weight loss in Crohn's disease from weight loss in thyroid diseases. She explained that with hyperthyroidism, weight loss is accompanied by increased appetite, nervousness, anxiety, insomnia, palpitations, a feeling of heat and excessive sweating. In the case of Crohn's disease, weight loss is most often associated with decreased appetite, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and general weakness.

"If you lose weight for no apparent reason, pay attention to the "companions" of this weight loss: if you feel constant nervous excitement against the background of weight loss, you feel hot, your heart is racing, and your appetite has even increased, this is a good reason to immediately consult an endocrinologist and check your thyroid hormone levels. If weight loss is accompanied by abdominal pain, especially after eating, stool disorders, possibly with an admixture of blood, general malaise and fever, your path lies to a gastroenterologist," Ivanova said.

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On September 18, Ivanova told Izvestia that unexplained weight loss is a serious symptom that may indicate systemic diseases. A decrease in body weight of more than 5% over the past 6-12 months for no apparent reason is a good reason to immediately consult a doctor. The doctor recommended starting the examination with a visit to a therapist, who will prescribe primary tests and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist endocrinologist, gastroenterologist or oncologist.

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