Symptom 3. Weight Loss: The Unintended Slimming Effect of ALCL
Weight fluctuations are a regular part of life. Whether it’s due to diet changes, stress, or even seasonal changes, our weight isn’t static. But when weight loss happens rapidly, without an apparent reason or without trying, it’s a cause for curiosity. ALCL can sometimes be behind such unintended weight loss.
The body expends energy trying to combat the cancerous cells of ALCL, which can lead to burning more calories than usual. This internal battle, coupled with decreased appetite often seen in ALCL patients, results in weight shedding off. It’s not a gradual loss either; it can be significant enough to be noticed over a short period.
Clothes fitting looser, rings sliding off fingers, and a general decline in body mass can be startling, especially when the individual hasn’t been actively trying to lose weight. This isn’t the kind of weight loss one celebrates, as it comes with other health concerns. Beyond the physical, rapid weight loss can also impact one’s self-esteem and body image.
ALCL-related weight loss can sometimes be accompanied by muscle wasting, giving the body a frail appearance. The combination of these factors – rapid weight loss, muscle wasting, and other symptoms like fatigue – paints a compelling picture of a body under duress, highlighting the significance of recognizing such changes early. (3)
