Obesity, a complex disease involving an excessive amount of body fat, is a major health concern in Licking County. Obesity increases the risk of other diseases and health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain cancers. For some, weight loss can be difficult and cause discouragement when results are not evident by stepping on a scale. Typically, obesity results from inherited, physiological, and environmental factors, combined with poor diet and inactivity. Weight gain and fluctuations in weight may occur for a variety of reasons, including lack of sleep, age, or lifestyle choices; however, several medical conditions can also cause weight gain or hinder weight loss.

Hypothyroidism, also referred to as underactive thyroid disease, is a common disorder that occurs when the thyroid gland fails to produce thyroid hormones to meet the needs of the body. The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front, lower part of the neck. Hormones released by the gland travel through the bloodstream to control the body’s use of energy from food and affect nearly every organ of the body, including the heart and brain. A lack of thyroid hormones causes body processes to slow down and metabolism to become sluggish. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, joint pain, dry skin, or a slowed heart rate. These symptoms may go unnoticed or mimic other diseases. Obtaining a diagnosis requires blood testing and imaging.

Metabolic syndrome, also called insulin resistance or hyperinsulinemia, is a cluster of health conditions including high blood pressure and high cholesterol which leads the body to resist the hormone insulin, making it less effective. Insulin is produced by the pancreas and assists with storing blood sugar in muscle, fat, and liver cells to be used for energy. When a person becomes resistant to insulin, the cells do not easily absorb sugar, and more insulin is needed for the sugar to enter the cells. As long as the pancreas produces enough insulin to overcome the cells’ weak response, blood sugar levels remain in the healthy range and no symptoms are apparent. When there is too much insulin, the liver and muscles are unable to store excess blood sugar and the body then sends the excess to be stored in fat cells. Generally, blood tests detect sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels and may be used along with blood pressure readings to diagnose the disorder.

A less common hormonal disorder known as Cushing’s Syndrome may also cause insulin resistance and high blood pressure. Cushing’s syndrome occurs when the adrenal glands, located at the top of the kidneys, produce too much of the hormone cortisol. Cortisol assists the body to respond to stress, maintains blood pressure, regulates blood sugar, and reduces inflammation. Too much of the hormone leads to a buildup of fat in the face, upper back, and abdomen. Diagnosis is based on medical history, a physical exam, and laboratory tests. The most common cause of Cushing’s syndrome is the long-term, high-dose use of the cortisol-like glucocorticoids used to treat other medical conditions, such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus.

For women, hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can lead to an imbalance that causes weight gain. Laboratory testing can be performed to determine if a hormonal condition is present. In addition, an abnormally high level of testosterone, the male sex hormone, in women can cause polycystic ovary syndrome. Common symptoms are irregular menstrual bleeding, acne, excessive facial hair, thinning hair, difficulty getting pregnant, and weight gain that is not caused by excessive eating.

Lack of sleep due to sleep apnea or insomnia may contribute to problems with weight gain as well. Changes in sleep cycles can affect eating patterns and mood, causing overeating. Researchers have found that a person who is sleep-deprived tends to consume more carbohydrates than necessary to meet the body’s energy requirements. Patients who suffer from chronic depression and stress also tend to overeat. Chemical substances produced by the body to combat stress can lead to the storing of fat which also contributes to weight gain.

Weight gain can be a side effect from certain medications used to treat seizures, diabetes, high blood pressure, and psychiatric disorders. Antipsychotic drugs, for example, may increase appetite as well as lower the rate at which the body burns calories. Individuals should Discuss all medication side effects with a healthcare provider. Similar medications may be available that will not cause weight gain.

Anyone who experiences rapid, unexplained weight gain and swelling should see a primary care physician, internist, or other healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause which could include serious health concerns such as kidney disease or heart failure. If the kidneys are not functioning correctly, or the heart is not pumping efficiently, the body may retain fluid, resulting in weight gain. Damaged kidneys are unable to properly remove waste and fluids from the body causing it to collect in the tissues. Reduced blood flow from heart failure affects the function of the other major organs. Swelling due to kidney or heart problems typically collects in the legs, ankles, or feet. Sudden changes in these areas should be investigated by a physician.

If weight loss is an issue, discuss concerns with a healthcare provider. Although it may be difficult to lose weight gained due to a medical condition or medication, adopting healthy eating habits and increasing exercise is still vital for overall health. A healthcare provider can assist in determining a treatment plan specific to the needs of a patient including referrals to a dietitian or behavioral counselor.