Overweight

About the Symptom

Obesity is excessive fat accumulation and excessive weight, generally when body mass index (BMI) is 30 or greater and can increase the risk of serious health problems.

When to See a Doctor

Seek professional care if you experience any of the following symptoms

• Melena (black stools)
• Facial edema
• Abnormal menstruation
• Unexplained weight loss of 5% or more in 1 month
• Recent weight loss
• Jaundice
• Edema
• Vomiting of blood

Possible Causes

Generally, Overweight can be related to:

• Drug-Induced Obesity

  Drug-induced weight gain is a side effect of many commonly used drugs, such as long-term steroid medication. This often leads to obesity-related health problems. Due to the weight gain, some patients discontinue the medication.

• Obesity

  Obesity (overweight) results from a combination of factors such as overeating, insufficient exercise, and genetic factors.

• Hypothyroidism

  A disorder where thyroid hormone levels in the body are abnormally low. These hormones are necessary for growth, development, and metabolism. Some symptoms include unintended weight gain, constipation, changes in menstrual cycles, dry skin, brittle nails, depression and memory issues. It can be caused by an autoimmune disorder (Hashimoto's) or from prior thyroid surgery and sometimes medications.

• Dyslipidemia
• Pituitary Adenoma
• Sleep Apnea Syndrome
• Cushing's Syndrome
• Inguinal Hernia
• Age-Related Macular Degeneration
• Diabetes Mellitus

Doctor's Diagnostic Questions

Your doctor may ask these questions to check for this symptom:

• Are you currently overweight?
• When did you first notice that you are overweight?
• How is your overweight now?
• Are you experiencing weight gain in your face and body while your arms and legs are getting thinner?
• Do you feel that your face has become round like a full moon, but your arms and legs are slim?

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