Does unintentional weight loss indicate diabetes?
Patient: My 21 year old daughter is concerned because she's losing weight without a any change in diet or exercise.  She's gone from 117 to 113 which because she's 5'2" is significant for her. That's the chief complaint. I told her it may be diabetes and if it continues she should get checked out. Doctor: HelloI have gone through your question and understood your concern.Glucose levels in our body are controlled by a hormone called insulin, which is made in the pancreas. Type 1 diabetes usually appears during childhood or adolescence.So if your doughter has diabetes it is more likely that it is type 1.In type 1 diabetes, the pancreas does not make enough insulin and this condition produce evident symptoms.Type 1 diabetes signs and symptoms can come on quickly and may include:-Increased thirst-Frequent urination-Extreme hunger-Unintended weight loss-Irritability and other mood changes-Fatigue and weaknessSo my answeris is Undiagnosed or untreated type 1 diabetes can cause weight loss but if your daughter has not other symptoms of the list,maybe the diabetes is not the culpit of her weight loss.Anyway, my advice is to check a fasting and random blood glocose or a Glycated hemoglobin (A1C) test.For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy,you can ask me at HealthCareMagic at my private link: bit.do/hcm-Dr-Xhardo.Hope i have answered to your question.If you have other doubts,feel free and ask.I will be happy to help.Take care.