Weight gain – unintentional
Definition
Unintentional weight gain is when you gain weight without trying to do so and you are not eating or drinking more.
Causes
Gaining weight when you are not trying to do so can have many causes.
Metabolism slows down as you age. This can cause weight gain if you eat too much, eat the wrong foods, or do not get enough exercise.
Medicines that can cause weight gain include:
- Birth control pills
- Corticosteroids
- Some medicines used to treat bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and depression
- Some medicines used to treat diabetes
Hormone changes or medical problems can also cause unintentional weight gain. This may be due to:
- Cushing syndrome
- Underactive or low thyroid (hypothyroidism)
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Menopause
- Pregnancy
Bloating, or swelling due to a buildup of fluid in the tissues can cause weight gain. This may be due to menstruation, heart or kidney failure, preeclampsia, or medicines you take. A rapid weight gain may be a sign of dangerous fluid retention.
If you quit smoking, you might gain weight. Most people who quit smoking gain 4 to 10 pounds (lb) or 2 to 4.5 kilograms (kg) in the first 6 months after quitting. Some gain as much as 25 to 30 lb (11 to 14 kg). This weight gain is not simply due to eating more.
Home Care
A healthy diet and exercise program can help you manage your weight. Talk to your health care provider or a dietitian about how to make a healthy eating plan and set realistic weight goals.
Do not stop any medicines that may be causing the weight gain without talking with your provider.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your provider if you have the following symptoms with the weight gain:
- Constipation
- Excessive weight gain without a known cause
- Hair loss
- Feel cold more often than before
- Swollen feet and shortness of breath
- Uncontrollable hunger accompanied by palpitations, tremor, and sweating
- Vision changes
What to Expect at Your Office Visit
Your provider will perform a physical exam and calculate your body mass index (BMI). The provider may also ask questions, such as:
- How much weight have you gained? Did you gain the weight quickly or slowly?
- Are you anxious, depressed, or under stress? Do you have a history of depression?
- What medicines do you take?
- What other symptoms do you have?
You may have the following tests:
- Blood tests
- Tests to measure hormone levels
- Nutritional assessment
Your provider may suggest a diet and exercise program or refer you to a dietitian. Weight gain caused by stress or feeling sad may require counseling. If weight gain is caused by a physical illness, treatment (if there is any) for the underlying cause will be prescribed.
References
Hafida S, Apovian CM. Obesity and neuroendocrine control of energy stores. In: Melmed S, Auchus RJ, Goldfine AB, Rosen CJ, Kopp PA, eds. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 15th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025:chap 40.
Jensen MD, Bessesen DH. Obesity. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 201.
Kumar RB, Aronne LJ. Obesity. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 7.
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor Emeritus, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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