Symptom 6: Weight Loss
It’s one thing when a teenager drops a few pounds after a growth spurt or rigorous athletic season. But when a child suddenly starts shedding weight without a clear reason, red flags should rise. In the world of JPS, unexplained weight loss often features prominently on the symptom list.
When JPS-related polyps densely populate the gastrointestinal tract, they may interfere with nutrient absorption. Food may pass through too quickly, or the polyps themselves might hinder the body’s ability to extract vital nutrients. As a result, despite a seemingly regular diet, the child may start losing weight.
Weight loss isn’t just about the scale’s numbers. Look for accompanying signs like reduced muscle mass, lethargy, or even a loss of that typical childlike energy. These subtle cues, when pieced together, tell a larger story of the body struggling to maintain its nutritional balance.
Consistent weight loss can set the stage for other issues. Lowered immunity, stunted growth, and even hormonal imbalances can emerge. It’s a concerning chain reaction, with the polyps acting as the first domino.
A sudden dip in weight shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s a clarion call to delve deeper, especially when seen alongside other symptoms. Identifying and treating the root cause, possibly JPS, can be the key to halting this troubling slide. (6)
