[31F] Experiencing unexplained weight loss and gastrointestinal symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possible conditions that could explain your symptoms:

• Gastrointestinal disorders: Conditions such as peptic ulcer disease, gastritis, or gallstones can cause chronic stomach pain and nausea. These conditions can also affect your appetite, leading to unintentional weight loss.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce stomach acid and inflammation, dietary modifications, and in some cases, surgery.

• Malabsorption disorders: Conditions like celiac disease or pancreatic insufficiency can cause weight loss, stomach pain, and changes in bowel movements. They can also lead to malnutrition, which might explain your fatigue and brain fog.

  • Treatment usually involves dietary modifications and supplements to replace the nutrients your body isn't absorbing properly.

• Endocrine disorders: Conditions such as hyperthyroidism or adrenal insufficiency can cause symptoms like weight loss, stomach pain, and increased sweating. They can also affect your body's ability to regulate temperature, which might explain why you often feel cold.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to correct the hormonal imbalance.

• Infections: Certain infections, such as tuberculosis or HIV, can cause chronic symptoms like weight loss, night sweats, and fatigue.

  • Treatment usually involves antibiotics or antiviral medications.

• Cancer: Although less likely, some types of cancer can cause symptoms like weight loss, stomach pain, night sweats, and fatigue. They can also cause changes in cognitive function and libido.

  • Treatment typically involves surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of these.

What you can do

Given the range and severity of your symptoms, it's important that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. Your doctor can perform a physical examination and order tests to help determine the cause of your symptoms.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in your stool or vomit
• Severe or worsening fatigue
• Confusion or difficulty staying awake
• Rapid heart rate or shortness of breath

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.