Gaining weight unexpectedly can be not only frustrating, but it also might be a sign of serious disease. The human body fluctuates in weight from day to day depending on the amount and density of you eat and the amount of fluid you ingest, but gaining more than 5 to 10 percent of your body weight over a short period of time could be a sign of more serious problems.
Fluid Retention
Fluid retention is one way our bodies gain weight rapidly but is usually not a serious condition. Eating excess salt can cause the body to retain water for longer periods of time, making it seem as if you've gained a significant amount of weight. If you feel like you're retaining water, cut down on your salt intake and drink more water. Your body will eventually flush out much of the excess fluid, and your weight will return to a normal level.
Kidney Disease
Certain conditions of the kidneys can also cause fluid retention. The kidneys primarily function to filter toxins out of the blood and pass them through urine. When your kidneys are diseased, your body has a harder time getting rid of fluids, causing them to collect throughout your system.
Cushing Syndrome
Cushing syndrome is a major disease caused by excess amounts of the hormone cortisol within the body, according to the National Institutes of Health. Sometimes caused by taking large amounts of corticosteroids---medications often used to treat arthritis or asthma---Cushing syndrome can cause excess weight gain, especially in the upper body, while your limbs remain thin. It can also cause a red, puffy face. If you feel you have some of the symptoms of Cushing syndrome, talk to your doctor and let him know what medications you are currently taking.
Medications
Certain medications can cause edema, or swelling throughout the body, which can make it seem as if you are gaining weight rapidly, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Some medications that may cause this condition include corticosteroids, lithium, tranquilizers and certain antidepressants.
Alcohol Use
Drinking alcohol can cause you not only to retain water and gain weight, but it also can make you gain fat as well. Many forms of alcohol contain high levels of calories. By increasing calorie intake and not compensating with regular exercise, your body will convert the calories into fat, causing you to gain weight. Try cutting back on your alcohol intake if you find yourself suddenly gaining unexpected weight.
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