Unintentional weight gain is an increase in body weight that occurs when a person takes in more calories than the body needs or uses, causing increased fat storage.

Almost 40% of all Americans are overweight. As we age, our metabolism  slows, which can cause weight gain unless we also reduce food intake and get adequate exercise.

Weight gain can also be a significant symptom of several endocrine diseases such as Cushing's syndrome or hypothyroidism. It may also be caused by heart or lung disorders as well.

A progressive weight gain occurs with pregnancy, whereas a periodic weight gain may occur with menstruation. A rapid weight gain may indicate dangerous fluid retention.

• Overeating and lack of exercise
• Poor eating habits (high-carbohydrate, high-calorie diet)
• Emotional factors such as guilt, depression, and anxiety
• Slower metabolism, which is normal with aging
• Smoking cessation
• Alcohol consumption
• Primary hypothyroidism
• Endocrine disorders including Cushing's syndrome or polycystic ovary syndrome
• Drugs such as corticosteroids, cyproheptadine, lithium, tranquilizers, phenothiazines, and tricyclic antidepressants
• Medications that increase fluid retention and cause edema (abnormal pooling of fluids in the tissues)

Take action by starting a proper diet and exercise program. Counseling or psychological aid may be helpful.

Set realistic weight goals to maintain a healthy weight. Consult with a health care provider about specific measures.

• There is a change in vision with the weight gain.
• Sensitivity to cold, constipation, and hair loss come with weight gain.
• Swollen feet and shortness of breath come with the weight gain.
• There are times during the day when hunger is uncontrollable and accompanied by palpitations, tremor, and sweating.
• The weight gain is excessive and the reason for the weight gain is unknown.

Your health care provider will perform a physical examination, measure your weight, and ask questions about your weight gain, such as:

• Time pattern
  • When did the weight gain begin?
  • Has it been sudden or gradual?
• Type
  • How much weight have you gained?
  • Has your appetite increased?
  • Has the amount or kind of food you eat changed?
  • Has your physical activity level decreased?
• Contributing factors
  • Has physical activity been restricted due to illness or injury?
  • Has participation in social activities decreased?
  • Have your stress or anxiety levels increased?
• Other symptoms
  • Have you fainted?
  • Do you have uncontrollable hunger with fast heart beats, shaking, and sweating?
  • Has your vision changed?
  • Are you more sensitive to cold?
  • Are you constipated?
  • Is there decreased urinary output?
  • Is there puffiness or swelling of face, feet and ankles?
  • Is there hair loss?
  • Are you short of breath ?
  • Are there changes in your sleep patterns, such as insomnia?
  • Is there muscle weakness?
  • Is there fatigue?
• Additional important information for your doctor:
  • What medications do you take?
  • Do you use alcohol?
  • Do you use street drugs?
  • Do you have a history of depression?
  • How is your body image -- is there an awareness of weight gain? Does this cause much concern?

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

• Nutritional assessment
• Blood tests including chemistry profile
• Measurement of hormone levels

Weight gain caused by emotional problems may require psychological counseling. Talk to your provider about an appropriate diet and exercise program and realistic weight loss goals. If weight gain is caused by a physical illness, treatment (if there is any) for the underlying cause will be prescribed.

If weight continues to be a problem despite diet and exercise, talk with your health care provider about other treatment options, including medications and surgery.