We all know that weight gain is the net result of energy consumption over energy expenditure. This is why eating excess calories and sedentary lifestyle can end up making you fat. But there are other medical reasons why you are putting on the excess pounds. It is important to know about these causes as well.
Hypothyroidism.
This is a disease seen commonly among females that makes them put on the extra pounds. It occurs when the thyroid gland which produces the hormone called thyroxine is underactive leading to reduced metabolism. Other than putting on excess weight, there are other symptoms as well such as constipation, lethargy, cold intolerance, menorrhagia in women and hair loss. A simple blood test will be sufficient to diagnose it and if confirmed, treatment with oral thyroxine hormone will help be rid of all symptoms, thus enabling healthy weight management.
Steroid treatment.
There are many diseases like asthma and arthritis which is being treated by drugs called corticosteroids. These will enter the body and affect the parts of the brain that control hunger and satiety. It will lead to increased appetite which will cause you to put on the extra pounds. The higher the dose of the drug and the longer it is being taken, the greater the effect. Asthma and arthritis are chronic conditions and thus most patients will tend to develop this side effect. If you ever enter a weight loss program and healthy lifestyle program Australia, make sure to mention the use of these drugs as it is important to adjust the programme according to your health.
Cushing’s syndrome.
This is a disease which leads to increased levels of the hormone cortisol which is also called the stress hormone. It is found to be elevated during stress as well. But if the disease is confirmed it is important to exclude the presence of a tumour as the disease can manifest as a result of a neoplasm. The weight gain seen in this disease is localized to specific sites like the face, behind the neck and abdomen. The limbs are usually very thin due to reduced muscle mass. They may also develop purple striae especially on the abdomen.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Due to the development of multiple cysts in the ovaries of women, they develop this disease which results in weight gain, infertility, excessive hair, and irregular periods. Awesome losing weight despite taking all necessary measures becomes very hard for those with the disease. It also increase the risk of developing diabetes in early life. Be educated on the diseases above and spread awareness to help people suffering with the symptoms mentioned.