WEIGHT GAIN

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Weight gain

Definition

Unintentional weight gain is an increase in body weight that occurs when a person takes in more calories than the body needs or uses.

Considerations

Almost 40% of all Americans are overweight. As we age, our metabolism slows, which can cause weight gain unless we also reduce the amount of food we eat and get adequate exercise.

Weight gain can also be a significant symptom of several endocrine diseases such as Cushing syndrome or hypothyroidism. It may also indicate a heart or lung disorder.

A continued weight gain occurs with pregnancy, whereas a periodic weight gain may occur with menstruation. A rapid weight gain may be a sign of dangerous fluid retention.

Common Causes

• Alcohol use
• Certain drugs such as corticosteroids, cyproheptadine, lithium, tranquilizers, phenothiazines, some antidepressants, and medicines that increase fluid retention and cause edema
• Cushing syndrome
• Eating too much and exercising too little
• Emotional factors such as guilt, depression, and anxiety
• High-carbohydrate, high-calorie diet
• Hypothyroidism
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Slower metabolism, which is normal with aging
• Quitting smoking

Home Care

Take action by starting a proper diet and exercise program. Counseling may be helpful.

Set realistic weight goals to maintain a healthy weight. Consult with a health care provider about specific measures.

Call your health care provider if

Contact your health care provider if the following symptoms occur along with the weight gain:

• Constipation
• Excessive weight gain without a known cause
• Hair loss
• Sensitivity to cold
• Swollen feet and shortness of breath
• Uncontrollable hunger accompanied by palpitations, tremor, and sweating
• Vision changes

Reviewer Info: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc., 11/06/2008