6. Unexplained Weight Loss: The Silent Sabotage
Weight fluctuations are normal. Diets, exercise regimens, and even stress can lead to weight changes.
However, when weight starts dropping without a clear reason, it’s cause for concern. For many women with gastric ulcers, this unexplained weight loss becomes noticeable over time.
Initially, it might be brushed off. A pound here, a pound there, seems insignificant.
However, as meals become associated with pain, nausea, or heartburn, there’s an unconscious reduction in food intake. Over time, these missed or reduced meals accumulate, leading to a significant drop in weight.
But it’s not just about reduced food intake. The body, in its attempt to heal the ulcer, might ramp up its metabolism.
This increased metabolic rate burns through calories faster, contributing to weight loss. Moreover, the stress and anxiety of dealing with persistent discomfort can further impact appetite and digestion.
While weight loss might seem like a boon to some, unexplained and rapid weight loss is a red flag. It signals that the body isn’t receiving the nutrition it needs or is battling an underlying issue, such as a gastric ulcer.(6)
