Lymph nodes and weight loss

Weight loss for some is an answer to prayer or an unattainable goal. For others, unexplained weight loss or excessive weight loss is a health problem. When it is accompanied by swollen lymph nodes, there is an increased cause for concern. The only way to determine the cause of weight loss and swollen lymph nodes is to be examined by a doctor.

When you are eating the same as you always do and have the same exercise routines and you are experiencing weight loss, it may be caused from a health problem. If you are loosing weight even though you are trying to gain weight, this could also be a sign of an illness. When you have weight loss and also swollen lymph nodes, it is wise to go see a health care professional. Be sure to note any other changes you’ve noticed or symptoms you are experiencing to help the doctor diagnose you.

Sometimes the weight loss and the swollen lymph nodes are from the illness or an infection that is related to the primary illness. Here is a list of some illnesses that cause of weight loss and swollen lymph nodes:

  • MRSA - acquired immune deficiency syndrome is a bacterial infection that is resistant to most treatments
  • AIDS/HIV - acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
  • Arthritis - an inflammation of joints that can affect children and adults that causes a lot of pain
  • Bulimia - an eating disorder that can affect people of all ages
  • Cancers And Tumors - there are many types of cancers and tumors; some are more rare than others.
  • Cat Scratch Fever - infections from a cat scratch, bite, or lick
  • Hodgkin Disease - a type of cancer that affects white blood cells
  • Infections - untreated infections from a variety of sources
  • Leukemia - there are many forms of leukemia (T-cell, lymphoblastic, erythroleukemia)
  • Liver Disease - hepatitis, cirrhosis, sarcoidosis, and others
  • Opportunistic Infections - an infection that is not commonly a problem except when the “opportunity” occurs from a compromised immune system
  • Sexually Transmitted Diseases - STD’s include syphilis, chlamydia, herpes, hepatitis, gonorrhea, HPV, HIV, and AIDS
  • TUBERCULOSIS (TB) - an infection that causes fluid build-up between the lining of the lung and the lung tissue

There are other illnesses, some are rare and serious and some are common and not serious. A health care professional is the only one that can diagnose the cause.

Preventing weight loss and swollen lymph nodes

The most common cause of swollen lymph nodes is infections. Flu like symptoms from an infection can cause a loss of appetite and weight loss. When the body is fighting illness, health issues, or infections it may use up more calories and the result will be weight loss. Building your immune system will help prevent illnesses and infections. Some health problems, like cancer, are less likely to be able to be prevented. The sooner you find out the cause of weight loss and swollen lymph nodes the sooner you can stop the weight loss and treat the cause. Even serious illness, caught early will increase the survival rate and shorten the duration of the illness.