What is unexplained weight gain?
Unexplained weight gain refers to gaining weight without clear causes like diet or lifestyle changes. Potential reasons involve complex hormonal imbalances or underlying health conditions. Always consult a doctor to understand sudden unexplained weight changes.
Common causes include:
- Hypothyroidism: Underactive thyroid gland slowing metabolism. Symptoms include fatigue, sensitivity to cold, constipation, dry skin, muscle weakness, and more.
- Cushing's syndrome: Excess cortisol hormone causing central obesity, moon face, buffalo hump, thin arms/legs etc.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Hormonal disorder affecting women. Symptoms include irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, and weight gain.
- Insulin resistance and diabetes: Cells resist insulin effects, increasing blood sugars and driving fat storage.
- Medications: Steroids, antipsychotics, antidepressants, epilepsy drugs etc. can increase appetite and calorie intake.
- Stress: Chronic stress activates cortisol and other pathways promoting abdominal fat storage.
- Poor sleep: Disrupting hunger regulation hormones like leptin and ghrelin.
Diagnosis involves blood tests of glucose, hormones, inflammation markers as well as pelvic ultrasounds, and ROI scans of adrenal glands.
Treatment depends on the underlying condition but can include medications, supplements, diet, exercise and stress management. Consulting an endocrinologist skilled in hormonal disorders can help create an individualized plan.
While frustrating, weight changes often provide vital clues to address root causes. Patience, self-care and expert support empowers sustainable change.
Let me know if you have any other questions!