Medical Health Encyclopedia

The physical examination may include a general physical examination and a measurement of the body weight.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include the following:

• Nutritional assessment
• Blood tests including a chemistry profile

Psychological counseling may be recommended in cases where anorexia nervosa or depression are the cause of the weight loss. In the early stages, anorexia nervosa may be best treated in a hospital with close supervision. Even after anorexia nervosa has apparently been cured, the individual should visit the doctor periodically. Relapse is not uncommon.

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For weight loss caused by a chronic illness, tube feeding may be administered in order to maintain nutrition and to prevent edema, poor healing, and muscle wasting.

The patient may be referred to a dietitian for nutritional counseling.