Hypothyroidism
- tiredness
- being sensitive to cold
- weight gain
- constipation
- depression
- slow movements and thoughts
- muscle aches and weakness
- muscle cramps
- dry and scaly skin
- brittle hair and nails
- loss of libido (sex drive)
- pain, numbness and a tingling sensation in the hand and fingers ( carpal tunnel syndrome)
- irregular periods or heavy periods
Elderly people with an under-active thyroid may develop memory problems and depression. Children may experience slower growth and development. Teenagers may start puberty earlier than normal.
If you have any of these symptoms, see your GP and ask to be tested for an underactive thyroid.
If an under-active thyroid isn’t treated
- a low-pitched and hoarse voice
- a puffy-looking face
- thinned or partly missing eyebrows
- a slow heart rate
- hearing loss
- anaemia
Diabetes treatment
Weight gain is a common side effect for people who take insulin to manage their diabetes. Insulin helps to control your blood sugar level. Some people with longstanding diabetes tend to eat more than they need to prevent low blood sugar, also known as a “hypo” or hypoglycaemia.
Steroid treatment
Steroids, also known as corticosteroids, are used to treat a variety of conditions, including asthma and arthritis. Long-term use of corticosteroid tablets seems to increase appetite in some people, leading to weight gain. “The higher the dose and the longer you are on steroids, the more weight you are likely to put on,”. “This is because steroids make you feel hungry, affecting the areas in the brain that control feelings of hunger and satiety.”
It’s not a good idea to reduce or stop your steroid treatment midway. If you’re worried about weight gain, chat to your doctor about help to control your weight.
Stress and low mood
People respond differently to stress, anxiety and depressed mood. Some people may lose weight, while others may gain weight. “People can turn to food as a coping mechanism,”. “It can lead to a vicious circle. Weight gain from depression can make you more depressed, which can lead to further weight gain. If you know you’re an emotional eater, you need to find other forms of distraction, such as exercise or a hobby, calling a friend, going for a walk or having a soothing bath.”
Tiredness
Some studies have shown that people who sleep less than seven hours a day are more likely to be overweight than those who get nine hours of sleep or more. It’s not clear why, but one theory is that sleep-deprived people have reduced levels of leptin, the chemical that makes you feel full, and higher levels of ghrelin, the hunger-stimulating hormone.
“If you’re always feeling tired, you are more likely to reach for high-calorie snacks to keep your energy levels up throughout the day and do less physical activity, which means you burn fewer calories.
Fluid retention
Fluid retention causes parts of the body to become swollen, which translates into weight gain. This gain is caused by fluid accumulating in the body. Some types of fluid retention are common – for example, if you’re standing for long periods or are pre-menstrual. The swelling can occur in one particular part of the body, such as the ankles, or it can be more general.
“More severe fluid retention can also cause breathlessness,”. “If you notice you have swollen ankles during the day, have to get up to pee overnight, and have to sleep on a few pillows to avoid breathlessness, you should see your doctor as these examples of fluid retention can indicate heart or kidney problems that need assessment.”
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a common condition that affects how a woman’s ovaries work. Symptoms can include irregular periods, trouble getting pregnant, excess hair and weight gain. The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it’s thought to be hormone-related, including too much insulin and testosterone.
“Women with PCOS typically put on weight around their waist,”. “The more weight you put on, the more insulin you produce, which can cause further weight gain.
Contact zero size for further consultation regarding your symptoms.
