Medical Health Encyclopedia

Weight gain - unintentional

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Weight gain - unintentional

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, causing increased fat storage.

Considerations:

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

Weight gain can also be a significant symptom of several endocrine diseases such as Cushing's syndrome or hypothyroidism. It may also be caused by heart or lung disorders as well.

A progressive weight gain occurs with pregnancy, whereas a periodic weight gain may occur with menstruation. A rapid weight gain may indicate dangerous fluid retention.

Common Causes:

• Overeating and lack of exercise
• Poor eating habits (high-carbohydrate, high-calorie diet)
• Emotional factors such as guilt, depression, and anxiety
• Slower metabolism, which is normal with aging
• Smoking cessation
• Alcohol consumption
• Primary hypothyroidism
• Endocrine disorders including Cushing's syndrome or polycystic ovary syndrome
• Drugs such as corticosteroids, cyproheptadine, lithium, tranquilizers, phenothiazines, and tricyclic antidepressants
• Medications that increase fluid retention and cause edema (abnormal pooling of fluids in the tissues)

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