Sudden Weight Gain
Gaining weight despite not increasing daily calorie intake or decreasing daily physical activity is called sudden or unintended weight gain. It is usually caused by fluid retention, abnormal growth, constipation, or during pregnancy. This increase can be temporary or frequent, like weight gain during the menstrual cycle, or permanent, such as weight gain due to certain medications. While it is generally not harmful, its associated side effects may require medical intervention.
Causes of Sudden Weight Gain
Insufficient Sleep
Lack of sleep is a contributing factor to weight gain, as sleep deprivation alters the natural hormone balance in the body, increasing feelings of hunger and appetite while reducing the sensation of fullness after eating. It also increases the likelihood of late-night snacking, leading to more calorie intake.
Stress
Stress increases the secretion of the hormone cortisol, which in turn boosts appetite. Many individuals tend to consume high-calorie foods when stressed, contributing to weight gain.
Antidepressants
Some types of antidepressants lead to weight gain. In such cases, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for potential medication adjustments. Weight gain may also occur in individuals taking antidepressants due to increased appetite from feeling better, or as a result of the depression itself.
Steroid Medications
Certain anti-inflammatory steroid medications, such as prednisone, can cause weight gain due to fluid retention and increased appetite. Some individuals may also notice fat accumulation in specific areas, like the face, abdomen, or neck when taking steroids. It is important not to suddenly discontinue these medications if taken for over a week, as it can lead to serious problems. Always consult a doctor regarding steroid use.
Quitting Smoking
Although quitting smoking is one of the best things a person can do for their health, it may lead to a slight weight gain in some individuals. This is generally due to increased feelings of hunger, which decrease several weeks after quitting.
Menstruation
Menstruation can lead to sudden weight gain due to fluid retention and bloating that some women experience around their menstrual period. Hormonal changes involving estrogen and progesterone can also contribute to weight gain. However, women’s bodies typically shed this excess weight after their menstrual cycle ends, only to regain it during the subsequent menstrual cycle or ovulation period.
Pathological Causes of Sudden Weight Gain
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a health condition that causes sudden weight gain. It occurs when the thyroid fails to produce sufficient amounts of thyroid hormone, affecting individuals of all ages, but women over fifty are more likely to be affected. Symptoms include a slow heartbeat, fatigue, thyroid enlargement, cold intolerance, sudden weight gain, constipation, numbness in extremities, headaches, and menstrual irregularities.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can lead to sudden weight gain and is one of the most common hormonal disorders among women of reproductive age. Women with this condition tend to have enlarged ovaries containing many small, fluid-filled sacs. Though the primary cause of PCOS is unclear, factors like increased insulin, low-grade inflammation, genetic predisposition, and abnormal fetal development may play roles. Symptoms include sudden weight gain, irregular periods, and elevated male hormone levels. Potential complications include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and endometrial cancer.
Cushing’s Syndrome
Cushing’s syndrome is a hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure of body tissues to the hormone cortisol. It is relatively rare and affects individuals aged 20 to 50, with higher risks in those with type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. Symptoms include sudden weight gain, fatigue, muscle weakness, high blood pressure, elevated blood glucose levels, increased thirst, anxiety, stress, and depression, along with fat lumps forming between the shoulders.
Insulin Resistance
When a person becomes resistant to insulin, body fat begins to accumulate, potentially leading to type 2 diabetes. An increase in insulin-producing cells in the pancreas or tumors in the pancreas can heighten the body’s insulin resistance.
Symptoms of Sudden Weight Gain
Symptoms of sudden weight gain can vary from person to person depending on the underlying cause. Typically, they may include abdominal pain, bloating, visible sweating in the abdomen and extremities. Immediate medical attention should be sought if symptoms such as fever, skin sensitivity, shortness of breath, swollen feet, palpitations, excessive sweating, vision changes, or continuous weight gain occur.
