What causes RA weight loss? | Arthritis Information

 

In researching RA I see that weight loss is one of the symptoms.  What causes that? Do the flu symptoms keep you from wanting to eat or what?  Thanks.I did lose weight very easily prior to my big flare.. then due to inactivity and other meds, I have since gained...

I don't know either but that's one of the aspects of the disease that can help us since it takes the weight off our knees, hips and ankles.  I was diagnosed just over a year ago and I've lost 50 lbs in that time.  I had help with stomach troubles though including diverticulitis, but losing the weight has been nice.  Lost more muscle than I would have liked though, and I can't head off to the gym anymore to add it back on. Lacey, Lev that's great you are able to get out there and walk so much! That's really interesting too what the dr. said about the weight gain/loss.  I've been frustrated lately, in 3 years have stayed the same weight, then all the sudden with all my new meds in the last 6 months..BAM! 25 pounds later! UGH! so frustrating...and it just keeps comming on! I wonder if MTX or prednisone somehow slow down the metabolism....do you think the immune system is connected somehow with your metabolism? That would make since with our immune systems being so out of whack.  Obviously my anti depressant will make me gain weight, but wonder if the other RA meds do that and mess with our metabolisms some how.?? RA weight loss?  I have gained about 30 lbs. since being diagnosed with RA.  I blame the off & on large doses of prednisone.  Well, maybe some ice cream too....shhhh. I lost weight before I was diagnosed.  Found it hard to walk across the room to get something to eat!  Now that I am being treated, I have gained and it doesn't seem like I am eating more.  I just started walking more as the weather is getting better.  I blamed the weight gain on inflamnation and the meds.  I also sit at a desk job all day.  I know no one at the RA doctor's office has said anything about weight--also the nurses who weigh me are a little chunky so it would be hard for them to say much.  On just said don't worry about it, you have enough to deal with.  I was overweight when I was diagnosed, and I realize an opportunity when I see one.  I kinda helped my weight loss some by consciously eating a little less too.  Got my shapely hour-glass figure back!  Going off of Prednisone, THAT'S what makes you lose weight!    While true in a way, I can't say I know the answer, I've lost 23 pounds since the 1st of the year but I don't eat as much because my appetite is zip, zero, nada.  I have to force myself to eat just to stay healthy.  If I never had to eat another bite I'd be perfectly ok with that.