Weight gain and changes in weight may be caused for several reasons. People gain weight with age or with any changes in their lifestyle. There are a number of causes of sudden weight gain, such as quitting smoking, high-calorie intake, lack of exercise, etc.
Unexpected weight gain can signal some underlying health conditions such as thyroid, heart problems, kidney issues, insomnia, PCOS, etc. In this article, let us find out what are the rapid weight gain causes.
Sudden Weight Gain Causes
There are a number of causes of sudden weight gain, such as -
Medication:
- Certain medications, such as antipsychotics, antidepressants, corticosteroids, and antihyperglycemics, may lead to unexpected weight gain.
- Consultation with a doctor is mandatory in case of rapid weight gain.
Insomnia:
- Inadequate sleep can disrupt circadian rhythms, influencing appetite hormones, energy needs, and food choices.
- According to research estimates in children, it is concluded that children who sleep less than 10 hours a day have a 76% higher likelihood of being overweight or obese.
Quitting Smoking:
- Nicotine in tobacco products increases metabolism and reduces appetite, so quitting may lead to weight gain.
- Studies show an average weight gain of 4.1 kg in the 5 years following smoking cessation.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):
- Other crucial rapid weight gain causes also include PCOS. It is an endocrine disorder that often involves insulin resistance, which contributes to weight gain.
- Certain changes in lifestyle, such as regular exercise and diet can help with insulin resistance, thus easing the symptoms of PCOS.
Heart Failure:
- Fluid retention due to heart failure can cause unexpected weight gain and swelling.
- Other symptoms include pulmonary coughing, breathlessness, and confusion, which require immediate medical attention.
Cirrhosis:
- Liver damage from cirrhosis can lead to abdominal fluid buildup, resulting in weight gain and other symptoms.
Thyroid Disorder:
- Hypothyroidism is caused by insufficient thyroid hormone production, which leads to slowing of the metabolism, resulting in unexpected weight gain.
- Symptoms of thyroid disorder include constant fatigue, depression, and dry skin, seeking medical assistance.
Other symptoms include:
- Apart from the above-mentioned symptoms or problems there are a number of other causes of sudden weight gain, such as Cushing syndrome Acromegaly, ovarian cancer
All these lead to excessive cortisol production, overproduction of growth hormones, menstrual problems leading to unexpected weight gain, etc.
Conclusion
Understanding the potential causes and risks associated with rapid weight gain is really important for timely intervention and effective medical treatment. Consultation with healthcare professionals is paramount for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
In this blog, we have discussed in detail the causes of sudden weight gain. Medical issues cause a lot of stress, so purchasing good health insurance for yourself and your family is always advised.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.