Can depression be a cause for weight loss?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am suffering from gastric problems for the last one and a half months. I lost 8.82 Ibs due to depression. I did my whole body checkup and all the reports are clear. But, I am having pain in my right-hand muscle as well as body pain. Is it due to depression? I studied leukemia on the internet and I am afraid that I am having the disease. Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query.

There are many causes for weight loss. Weight loss can be due to depression. Even any chronic infection in body can cause weight loss. If you are not taking proper diet due to gastric problem, then this might also the reason for your weight loss. As your reports were normal, there is less chance for having malignancy. But, still if you are in doubt you can repeat your investigations. Body pains can be due depression. Take bland diet. Drink plenty of water. Have fiber rich diet and avoid fatty and oily food.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

No need of repeating the tests if you have done last month and normal. To overcome depression you need to avoid stress. Be positive towards life, walk for at least half an hour daily morning and evening. Try meditation. Have proper balanced diet. If the aches are mild then no need of taking any medicine. Get a ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) done if not done last month.

Answer 3

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, the ESR value is normal. No need to worry. Take proper diet and try to be tension free and happy. Daily walk, meditation or yoga will help you but if you still feel depressed then only think of taking physician consultation and medication. If your pain is severe, then you can take analgesic as required.

Answer 4

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It will help you and also take care of depression. Do not take it for a long time and follow your treating physician's instructions. Wish you a speedy recovery.