|
Weight changes during treatment for cancer are common. There
are a number of causes for weight loss including:
(You can learn more about each of these causes in the related
sections.)
Causes for gaining weight include:
- Less activity
- Eating more
- Retaining water (See the section on swelling.)
- Certain medicines
Weight changes of more than 5 pounds in a week should be
reported to your doctor. A decrease in weight over time may affect the
person's ability to function, leaving people feeling weak and unable to
perform daily activities. Quick weight loss is often a sign of
dehydration. An increase in weight over time may suggest a serious
health condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. You may be
able to tell if you gain or lose 5 pounds in a week by the way you feel
or the way your clothes fit, or you can weigh yourself on a scale once
a week or so.
What to look for
- Weight loss of 5 pounds or more in a week or less
- Dry skin
- Fatigue, weakness
- Feeling very thirsty
- Dizziness
- Clothes or rings are too big
OR
- Weight gain of 5 pounds or more in a week or less
- Swollen ankles
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling puffy or bloated
- Tight shoes, clothes, or rings
What the patient can do
If you have lost weight:
- Drink extra high-protein and high-calorie fluids between
meals.
- Be sure to drink enough water or other liquids that have no
caffeine
- Eat high-protein foods. You may also try liquid food
supplements.
- Ask your doctor or nurse to arrange a meeting with a
dietitian.
If you have gained weight:
- Talk with your doctor or nurse about limiting fluid if your
ankles are swollen.
- Limit your salt intake.
- Limit high-calorie foods.
- Ask your doctor or nurse to arrange a meeting with a
dietitian.
What caregivers can do
- Weigh the patient at the same time every day and write it
down along with the date. In the morning, before breakfast, is a good
time.
- Talk to the doctor if the patient's weight loss or weight
gain concerns you.
- Watch the patient for other symptoms.
Call the doctor if the patient:
- Loses or gains more than 5 pounds in a week
- Has shortness of breath
- Feels dizzy or becomes confused
Go back to Caring for the
Patient with Cancer at Home: A Guide for Patients and Families.
Last Medical Review: 04/27/2009
Last Revised: 04/27/2009
|
