Can MS cause weight loss? Or should I begin to think cancer?

[suzieqs]

I'm curious, this weight loss I'm experiencing I know is not normal, between Feb and March this year alone -6 lbs overall weight loss to date -28 lbs. I'm not trying to lose weight either I'm A: not getting enough caloric intake or B: Something else is absorbing the nurtrients that my body should be getting.

If that small 6mm round high signal could be a neoplasm, could this be why I'm losing weight, or could my empty sella be causing hypopituiarism which in turn is causing other gland systems to malfunction? So my body can't absorb and maintain my weight, I feel like I'm wasting away here.

[MarisaV]

As far as I know, MS is usually associated with weight gain.

I'm in a similar situation at the moment too (I've lost 20+ lbs in the last 3-4 months, and now weigh as much as I did when I was 15)

You Doctor should be able to tell if the pituitary is affected from looking at the MRI. Blood tests on your hormone levels and their stimulating hormones should also tell the story. At least one of your pituitary-mediated hormones should be affected if your pituitary is impacted.

Has your appetite been affected (increase, decrease, or none)? Any changes in body hair ? These usually go along with hormonal problems.

That kind of weight loss, for no reason, should be looked into. If your Doctors aren't concerned, either find a new Doctor or give them a kick in the pants.

Cancer is one suspect when there's unintended weight loss like this, but hormonal issues are more likely. I wouldn't start worrying about cancer, but your Doctor may want to run some tests.

Mar

[jensequitur]

Typically people gain weight on MS, because of the lack of activity and possible hypothyroidism.  I would definitely contact your doctor about the abnormal weight loss.

[starryeyes1]

Welcome to the forum!!

I am assuming that you have been to the Dr and have you been diagnosed with MS? To lose that much weight in a short amt of time is obviously abnormal and dangerous. Has your Dr done blood tests re: thyroid? Did you say they found something on an MRI?

I have not heard of MS causing weight loss, but I am no expert. I would hope that your Dr or Neurologist would take an interest in your symptoms. Don't let this go!

Hang in there and keep us posted. Take Care

Kristi