Experiencing abnormal weight gain can result from various factors, with medication being one of the most prevalent. Here are several factors that might contribute to abnormal weight gain.
An unhealthy lifestyle, improper diet, and medical conditions could all be contributing factors to your weight gain. If you’re concerned about abnormal weight gain, it’s essential to understand what might be causing it. According to Natural News, antipsychotic medications can lead to rapid weight gain and elevated LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. These drugs are commonly prescribed for conditions such as autism, bipolar disorder, and aggression.
Here are some of the potential causes of abnormal weight gain:
Oedema
Fluid retention, also known as edema, is a medical condition where fluid is not properly removed from bodily tissues. Several factors can contribute to edema, including the body’s response to hot weather, hormonal changes during a woman’s menstrual cycle, and a high-sodium diet. Symptoms of edema may include achiness, stiffness, and swelling of the extremities. If you notice sudden and abnormal weight gain, it could indicate a serious case of fluid retention.
Heart failure
Individuals with a weakened heart are at a higher risk of experiencing rapid weight gain compared to those with a healthy heart. In cases of heart failure, the heart may accumulate fluid, leading to weight gain. It’s crucial for heart failure patients to monitor their weight daily and promptly notify a healthcare provider if they observe a weight gain of 3 pounds or more in 3 days.
Prednisone
Prednisone, a corticosteroid medication, is often prescribed for individuals with low corticosteroid levels or abnormal immune responses. Conditions like nephrosis may require high doses of prednisone. One of the initial side effects of prednisone is increased appetite, leading to rapid weight gain and the development of fat tissues. Children undergoing prolonged prednisone treatment may exhibit flushed cheeks and an accumulation of fatty tissue due to the medication.
Cushing syndrome
An individual who is obese and has poorly controlled blood sugar levels due to type 2 diabetes is at an elevated risk of developing Cushing syndrome. Cushing syndrome is a hormonal disorder characterized by prolonged exposure to the stress hormone cortisol. Common symptoms include upper body obesity and fat accumulation around the neck. Adrenal cancer can also lead to Cushing syndrome by causing excessive release of adrenocortical hormones into the bloodstream, resulting in rapid symptom development and extremely high hormone levels.
If you notice sudden changes in weight or appetite, or experience bloating, it’s important to consult with your doctor to determine if there’s an underlying serious health condition.