Underweight
Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD's weight loss doctor NYC
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| Underweight | |
|---|---|
| File:Body mass index chart.svg | |
| Synonyms | Low body weight |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | N/A |
| Symptoms | Fatigue, dizziness, hair loss, amenorrhea |
| Complications | Malnutrition, osteoporosis, infertility, immune dysfunction |
| Onset | Any age |
| Duration | Variable |
| Types | N/A |
| Causes | Malnutrition, eating disorders, chronic disease, genetic factors |
| Risks | Anemia, heart problems, reduced muscle strength |
| Diagnosis | BMI < 18.5 |
| Differential diagnosis | Hyperthyroidism, celiac disease, cancer, tuberculosis |
| Prevention | Balanced diet, regular health check-ups |
| Treatment | Nutritional support, addressing underlying conditions |
| Medication | Nutritional supplements |
| Prognosis | Variable, depending on cause |
| Frequency | Varies by population |
| Deaths | Rare, but possible due to complications |
Underweight is a condition where an individual has a body weight considered too low to be healthy. It is often defined using the Body Mass Index (BMI), a measure that compares weight to height. A BMI below 18.5 is typically classified as underweight.
Causes[edit]
There are several potential causes of being underweight, including:
- Malnutrition: Inadequate intake of nutrients can lead to underweight.
- Metabolic disorders: Conditions like hyperthyroidism can increase metabolism and lead to weight loss.
- Chronic diseases: Diseases such as cancer, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS can cause weight loss.
- Eating disorders: Disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa can result in being underweight.
- Genetics: Some individuals may naturally have a lower body weight due to genetic factors.
Health Implications[edit]
Being underweight can have several health implications, including:
- Immune system: A weakened immune system, making one more susceptible to infections.
- Osteoporosis: Increased risk of bone fractures due to low bone density.
- Anemia: A deficiency in red blood cells or hemoglobin.
- Fertility issues: Potential problems with fertility and pregnancy.
- Growth and development: In children and adolescents, underweight can affect growth and development.
Diagnosis[edit]
Diagnosis of underweight typically involves calculating the Body Mass Index and assessing dietary intake, medical history, and physical examination. Additional tests may be conducted to identify underlying causes.
Management[edit]
Management of underweight involves addressing the underlying cause and may include:
- Nutritional support: Increasing caloric intake with a balanced diet.
- Medical treatment: Treating any underlying medical conditions.
- Psychological support: Counseling for those with eating disorders.
Prevention[edit]
Preventing underweight involves ensuring adequate nutrition and addressing any medical or psychological issues that may contribute to weight loss.
