Why HIV infection can cause unintentional weight loss

HIV affects immune function. The body may use more energy while it responds to inflammation or another infection, while fatigue, nausea, mouth sores or low mood can make eating harder. Diarrhoea and other gut problems may also limit how well nutrients are absorbed. Unintentional Weight Loss is a common presentation of HIV Infection, but weight loss has many possible causes and does not identify the cause by itself.

Arrange a medical assessment, particularly if weight continues to fall or appetite has changed. A clinician can review eating, medicines, bowel symptoms and signs of infection, and discuss appropriate HIV testing where relevant. Keep a simple record of changes in weight, meals, diarrhoea, fever and medicines. Small regular meals and fluids may be easier while you wait for advice, but they do not replace assessment of the underlying cause.

Seek urgent medical care for trouble breathing, confusion, fainting, inability to keep fluids down, severe weakness, severe abdominal pain, or blood in vomit or stool. Contact a clinician promptly for persistent fever, prolonged diarrhoea, painful swallowing, or weight loss that is continuing without an explanation.

Ask what might be driving the weight change, whether tests for infection or nutrient problems are appropriate, and how to protect nutrition while treatment is planned. If HIV is diagnosed, ask how treatment, viral control and follow-up can help address symptoms and maintain weight.