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On a number of occasions I have had patients who complain that they are too thin, that they are ashamed to be seen in swimwear because their bones stick out, and that they cannot put on any weight. These people are not suffering from the well-known affliction called anorexia, but sometimes there is a medical explanation for their weight.
For example, if a patient has an overactive thyroid gland, then the food they eat will be burnt up so rapidly that they will stay skinny however much they eat. A patient who has a chronic infection, may suffer from a serious loss of weight. Anyone who loses weight suddenly or unexpectedly, or without wanting to, must always see a doctor for advice. In some cases weight loss will follow a temporary infection or illness of some kind.
It is quite common for people who have had viral infections, such as viral hepatitis or simple influenza, to lose their appetite. That appetite loss can then lead to a considerable weight loss. The loss of appetite that accompanies depression, may also lead to a weight loss. If you are going to get your appetite back and put on weight, you must rebuild your interest in food carefully.Teacher: Michael
Many articles taken from 'A word with the doctor', by Dr. John Windsor.
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