Weight gain is typically caused by consuming more calories than the number burned through physical activity. Thyroid problems, pregnancy and genetic disorders are also associated with unintended weight gain. If your weight has increased and you're unsure about the cause, discuss your symptoms with your doctor.
Major Depression
Major depression is an emotional disorder that involves elongated periods of negative moods such as sadness, loneliness or purposelessness. Though the disorder's primary symptoms involve emotional factors, additional symptoms such as changes in weight are common. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, people who suffer from depression may experience changes in appetite, eating habits and, as a result, altered weight. People who eat as a means of coping with emotions (behavior known as emotional eating) may experience increased weight. Depression also commonly causes lethargy (physical exhaustion or weakness) and lack of ambition to tend to normal daily activities such as exercise---all factors associated with weight gain. Some medications used to treat depression may cause modest weight gain as well. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, seek guidance from a qualified doctor or therapist. If you are currently in treatment for depression, discuss your symptoms with your therapist or psychiatrist. In most cases, lifestyle changes, behavioral therapy and/or pre-approved changes in medication can help prevent or reduce depression-related weight gain.
Thyroid Problems
The thyroid is a gland that affects a person's metabolic function, or the rate at which calories from food are utilized and processed. When the thyroid gland produces too few hormones, a condition known as hypothyroidism, modest weight gain is a likely consequence. The most weight gain is seen in people with severe cases of hypothyroidism. According to the American Thyroid Association, most people with hypothyroidism experience a modest weight increase of about 5 to 10 lbs. Since hypothyroidism often causes lethargy as well, those who become less active due to the condition may have trouble losing added weight or may gain more weight due to inactivity. If you suspect a thyroid problem, seek proper testing from your doctor. In most cases, once the condition is treated (often with synthetic thyroid), the gained weight dissipates. A healthy dietary lifestyle and regular physical activity are recommended for further benefits.
Cushing's Syndrome
Cushing's syndrome, also known as hypercortisolism, is a hormonal disorder caused by overexposure to the hormone called cortisol. A common symptom of the disorder is abdominal obesity, or excessive body fat accumulation in the stomach area. In addition, many people develop increased fat around the face and neck, though the arms and legs may remain slimmer. According to the National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service, Cushing's syndrome, though somewhat rare, tends to affect adults from age 20 to 50. If you are obese, have type II diabetes or high blood pressure, you are at increased risk for the condition. Cushing's syndrome is treatable, typically with drugs, surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. To help prevent Cushing's syndrome, maintain a physically active lifestyle and nutrient-rich, calorie-appropriate diet.
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