Medical Conditions That Lead To Weight Gain

[GuestAdmin]

Although weight gain is generally the result of eating too much and exercising too little, there are some medical conditions leading to weight gain even without being associated with an increased consumption of food or a decreased exercise level. These conditions include certain endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism, Cushing's syndrome and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Below is a brief description of these hormonal diseases.

Hypothyroidism is a medical condition caused by the inability of the thyroid gland to produce the required amount of thyroid hormone. Although the causes of hypothyroidism can vary, symptoms are always characterized by weigh gain, puffy face, fatigue, cold intolerance, constipation, joint and muscle pain, depression and heart problems. The most effective treatment for hypothyroidism is generally thyroid hormone supplementation.

Cushing's syndrome is a rare hormonal condition caused by prolonged exposure to endogenous (adrenal) or exogenous cortisol. It is characterized by upper body obesity with thin arms and legs, as well as by fatigue, muscle weakness, hypertension and hyperglycaemia. Because Cushing's syndrome can result from several different conditions, treatment varies depending upon the underlying cause.

Finally polycystic ovary syndrome is an endocrine disorder of unknown origin, in which women develop many small ovarian cysts and have unusually high levels of male hormones (androgens) and irregular or missed menstrual periods. Symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome include weight gain or obesity (usually around the waist), infertility, skin disorders, diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol. The treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms and lowering the levels of male hormones, and usually is based on the use of birth control pills, fertility medications and anti-androgens.

From the description above, it is apparent that all these condition can lead to localized weight gain or obesity due to hormonal imbalances or deficiencies. That's why the only effective way to lose weight in those areas is to treat the underlying condition and re-establish (when possible) the normal hormonal balance.

It is important to remember that taking certain medications can contribute to weight gain as well. Some medications that most commonly cause weigh gain include antidepressants, certain anti-diabetes drugs, oral contraceptives and steroids. In any case it is important that patients don't' stop taking their medicines by themselves if they start to gain weight. Rather, they should consult with their doctor in order to find other treatment alternatives devoid of weight gain effects or to take the appropriate measures to counteract weight gain.

From what said above, it would seem that diet and exercise don't play a key role in weight loss when the cause of overweight or obesity is a hidden medical condition or the use of certain medications. And this is actually the case. However remember that, although they don't play a key role in these circumstances, diet and exercise have always an unsubstitutable value in helping achieve the desired weigh loss goal.