QuestionWhat would be causing a person age 55 to be losing body mass fairly rapidly
AnswerHi Clinton and thanks for writing, I apologise for my delay in responding but I had to leave the country unexpected for a urgent family matter.
Cancer is the most frequently cited cause of involuntary weight loss, and weight loss may occur during early stages of tumour growth before other symptoms emerge. The anorexia of malignancy has been related to taste alterations; changes in gastrointestinal tract contraction and secretion; metabolic disturbances resulting in changes of circulating glucose, amino acid, fatty acid, or lactic acid levels; changes in hypothalamic function; and weakness leading to decreased motor activity.
In addition to cancer, gastrointestinal disease, uncontrolled diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders such as congestive heart failure, alcohol abuse, pulmonary disease, and infection are major causes of involuntary weight loss. Less common, but still a cause of notable weight loss, is hyperthyroidism.
Specific nutrient deficiencies and low nutrient intakes, which may contribute to weight loss, have been documented in patients with dementia. Deficiencies of folate, thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, and vitamin B12 and electrolyte imbalance may impair cognitive function and mimic dementia.
Some nutrient deficiencies that alter mental status may be present in the elderly population. Altered mental states attributable to nutrient deficiencies and weight loss can be corrected. Several studies have shown that folate deficiency leads to confusion and signs of dementia in elderly individuals, but can be reversed with appropriate supplementation. If confusion and dementia caused by nutrient deficiencies are not diagnosed and corrected, they may lead to even lower nutrient intakes and more severe alterations in mental status.
I hope this helps and I wish you both the very best in the future.
Margot
