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Unexplained Causes of Weight Gain

Poor diet and lack of exercise are the most common reasons for weight gain. When we consume more calories than our bodies need, or eat foods high in calories and low in nutritional value, the number on the scale goes up. However, weight gain can also occur for reasons other than diet and activity level.

  1. Cushing's Syndrome

    • People who inexplicably gain weight may have Cushing's Syndrome, a condition that occurs when the body creates too much cortisol. Symptoms include obesity, which is especially evident in the upper portion of the body; the legs and arms of a person suffering from Cushing's remain slim. A round face is another sign of Cushing's. People with this condition may feel extreme fatigue, and may find that they are always thirsty and need to urinate unusually often. Cushing's patients may also find that they feel depressed, irritable or anxious.

      Urine or saliva tests may be used to test for Cushing's. A number of treatment options are available, including medication, radiation and surgery.

    Hypothyroidism

    • Hypothyroidism can also result in weight gain. According to The Mayo Clinic, Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not work properly, resulting in a chemical imbalance. People over 50 are more likely to suffer from the condition, and symptoms take many years to develop. In addition to obesity you may experience pain in your joints, pale skin, muscle pain and weakness, constipation and fatigue. People suffering from hypothyroidism often develop high cholesterol, heart disease and an extreme sensitivity to cold.

      Your doctor will perform a blood test to determine if you have hypothyroidism. Medication can treat the condition.

    PCOS

    • Unexplained weight gain can also be caused by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, a disease that causes enlarged ovaries which become covered in cysts. Other symptoms of this condition include infertility and an irregular menstrual cycle. Abnormally large secretions of androgens, or male hormones, can result in hair growth and acne on the body and face. A number of other conditions may result from PCOS, such as bleeding of the uterus and sleep apnea. If your doctor believes you may have PCOS, he may perform a number of tests, including blood tests. Treatments include lifestyle changes and possibly surgery.

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