# Unexplained weight loss: causes and when to see a doctor

_Unexplained weight loss: what it can be linked to, how urgent it is and what to do next. Kenya guidance from My Wellness Health._

Canonical: https://guides.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/symptoms/unexplained-weight-loss

Author: My Wellness Health, Editorial team · Reviewed by: the My Wellness Health clinical team on 7 Oct 2026

Last updated: 7 Oct 2026 · Published by My Wellness Health — Preventive Healthcare & Care Navigation

> Losing weight without trying can be linked to many conditions: an overactive thyroid, diabetes, infections such as TB, depression, and some cancers. See a clinician if you have lost noticeable weight in a few months without trying.

**Unexplained weight loss: what to do**

| How urgent | What a clinician will check | How we help | Fee |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| See a clinician if you have lost noticeable weight in a few months without trying. | A clinical review and blood tests. | Hypertension and diabetes assessment | Hypertension and diabetes assessment, KES 200 |

## Unexplained weight loss: common questions

**Q: What can cause unexplained weight loss?**

A: Losing weight without trying can be linked to many conditions: an overactive thyroid, diabetes, infections such as TB, depression, and some cancers.

**Q: When should I see a doctor?**

A: See a clinician if you have lost noticeable weight in a few months without trying.

**Q: What will the doctor check?**

A: A clinical review and blood tests.

**Q: Is unexplained weight loss serious?**

A: Usually not, but it is worth getting checked so a clinician can find the cause. Only an examination and tests can tell.

**Q: How can My Wellness Health help?**

A: My Wellness Health's hypertension and diabetes assessment (Hypertension and diabetes assessment, KES 200) looks at your symptoms, history and lifestyle and gives you a personalised risk report with clear next steps. A care navigator calls you back within 2 hours to help you book any screening you need at a facility that suits your budget and location. Assessment fees do not include tests or consultations at the facility.

This page is health information to help you understand risks and next steps. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a qualified clinician. My Wellness Health is not a diagnostic service: we help you understand your risk and connect you with the right screening and care. In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 999 or 112. If you are thinking of harming yourself, call Befrienders Kenya on +254 722 178 177 or the Kenya Red Cross toll-free line 1199.

## Sources

- [My Wellness Health](https://www.mywellnesshealth.co.ke/)
- [World Health Organization, Diabetes fact sheet](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diabetes)
- [Ministry of Health Kenya, Protocols for Management of Selected NCDs at Primary Care (2025)](https://health.go.ke/sites/default/files/2025-07/FINAL_NCD%20protocols.pdf)

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