Weight gain (unintentional)
Alternative names:
involuntary weight gain
Definition:
An increase in body weight that occurs when caloric intake exceeds body requirements, causing increased fat storage.
Considerations:
Almost 40% of all Americans are overweight. Aging, which is generally accompanied by a slower metabolism, often causes weight gain unless accompanied by a reduction in food intake or adequate exercise.
Weight gain is a significant symptom of several endocrine diseases. It may also be caused by heart or lung disorders.
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
- social pressure
- slower metabolism, which is normal with aging
- medications that increase fluid retention and cause edema (or the abnormal pooling of fluids in the tissues)
- smoking cessation
- depression with compulsive eating
- alcohol consumption
- hypothyroidism, primary
- drugs such as corticosteroids, cyproheptadine, lithium, oral contraceptives, tranquilizers, phenothiazines, and tricyclic antidepressants
Note: There may be other causes of unintentional weight gain. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for unintentional weight gain, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.
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