Weight changes

Weight changes during treatment for cancer are common. There are a number of causes for weight loss including:

• Eating less due to nausea or poor appetite
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Dehydration

(You can learn more about each of these in their related sections.)

Causes for gaining weight include:

• Less activity
• Eating more
• Retaining water (See the section called "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 patient's ability to function, and make them 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