14. Unexplained Weight Loss and Muscle Wasting
Why it happens: Chronic lung failure increases body energy demands and reduces appetite, leading to cachexia (muscle loss).
How it feels: Patients look thin and frail, with weak arms and legs, despite a swollen chest or belly.
Medical Tests:
- Nutritional Assessment: Tracks BMI and muscle mass.
- Pulmonary Function Test: Confirms severe lung damage.
- Blood Tests: Rule out cancer or TB.