Sudden weight acquire might point out one thing improper along with your well being
Throughout our lives our weight can fluctuate with elements resembling age, sickness, weight loss program, hormones and mobility contributing.
Changes to your weight could possibly be on account of one thing innocent like a way of life change.
However, in case you discover a “sudden” or sudden distinction this could possibly be trigger for concern.
Speaking about sudden weight acquire, pharmacist Abbas Kanani from Chemist Click Online Pharmacy, stated: “It can be subjective and may vary from person to person.
“Sudden weight gain typically refers to a significant increase in weight that occurs over a relatively short period of time.
“The specific timeframe and amount of weight gain considered ‘sudden’ can depend on various factors, including the person’s baseline weight, body composition and underlying health conditions.”
Medical situations linked to weight acquire
He warned that weight acquire could be brought on by fluid retention within the physique or adjustments to our metabolism – each of which might sign one thing extra critical.
“An underactive thyroid gland, also known as hypothyroidism, can slow down metabolism, leading to fluid retention,” Mr Kanani stated.
“Thyroid hormones, primarily triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), help regulate the body’s metabolic rate.
“These hormones influence how the body uses energy from food. In hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland doesn’t produce sufficient hormones, leading to a reduced metabolic rate.
“This can result in fewer calories burned at rest and contribute to weight gain.
“Hypothyroidism can also cause water retention or oedema, leading to temporary weight gain.
“This is due to the decreased efficiency of the thyroid hormones in regulating fluid balance in the body.
“The accumulation of fats in the body as a result of hypothyroidism can also lead to weight gain, especially in the form of increased body fat.
“People with an underactive thyroid may experience changes in appetite too which can lead to an increase in eating.”
Heart failure, kidney or liver illness may trigger fluid retention within the physique, resulting in sudden weight acquire, he warned.
Another medical situation affecting metabolism is Cushing’s syndrome.
“Cushing’s syndrome is a condition that occurs when the body produces an excessive amount of cortisol, a hormone that regulates metabolism,” Mr Kanani continued.
“Weight gain, particularly in the face, upper back and abdomen can be a symptom.”
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may trigger weight acquire in individuals with ovaries on account of insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances, he stated.
What to do in case you expertise sudden weight acquire
Unexplained weight acquire can have numerous causes, stated Mr Kanani, together with medical situations, hormonal imbalances, life-style elements or a mix of things, so it’s advisable to have your signs checked by your physician and to not assume you will have a selected situation.
He added: “If an underlying medical condition is identified as the cause of the weight gain, you will be recommended an appropriate treatment plan which you should follow.
“It is important to evaluate your dietary habits, portion sizes, eating patterns and overall calorie intake.
“Additionally, consider your physical activity levels and any changes in lifestyle habits that might be contributing to weight gain.”