When mentioning heart disease, many people often think of weight gain due to water retention or edema. However, in reality, heart disease, especially heart failure, can also cause unintentional weight loss. According to Dr. Deebanshu Gupta, a cardiologist at Sarvodaya Hospital (Jalandhar, India), this is an important warning sign that heart function is declining and should not be ignored.
Why can heart disease cause weight loss?
Weight loss associated with heart disease often occurs silently and for a long time. Patients may notice looser clothing or gradual weight loss without changing their diet or exercise. According to Dr. Deebanshu Gupta, this condition is not only fat loss but also includes muscle mass, causing the body to weaken significantly.
An important cause is Cardiac Cachexia, a complex metabolic disorder that leads to loss of muscle, fat and bone mass.
Key mechanisms leading to weight loss
Dr. Deebanshu Gupta said that there are many combined factors that cause weight loss:
Reduce cravings: Fatigue, shortness of breath or drug side effects make patients eat less.
Increased energy needs: The heart has to work harder, causing the body to consume energy even when resting.
Poor nutrient absorption: Blood flow to the digestive system decreases, affecting absorption capacity.
Promotes muscle breakdown and metabolic disorders.
Heart diseases that easily cause weight loss
According to Dr. Deebanshu Gupta, this condition is common in:
Most common causes, especially in severe stages
Congenital heart disease: Can cause slow development, underweight
Severe coronary artery disease: Causes fatigue, reduced appetite
In patients with heart failure, fluid accumulation also causes early fullness or shortness of breath when eating, reducing the amount of food intake.
Accompanying signs to note
Weight loss rarely occurs individually. Patients need to be vigilant if there are any additional:
Prolonged fatigue.
Shortness of breath.
Edema in the legs, ankles, or abdomen.
Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
Reduce muscle strength.
This may be a sign that the disease is progressing severely.
When do you need to see a doctor?
Dr. Deebanshu Gupta recommends going for examination if:
Unexplained weight loss.
Lose more than 5% of weight in 6–12 months.
Accompanied by shortness of breath, fatigue or loss of appetite.
Tests such as echocardiography, electrocardiogram, or blood tests help determine the cause.
Can this situation be improved?
Dr. Deebanshu Gupta said that proper treatment can help stabilize weight. As heart function improves, appetite and nutrient absorption gradually recover.
