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What is the Cause of My Weight Gain?

04/22/2010

Question:

I read an article about a woman gaining over 50 pounds in about 6 months. Well the same thing has happened to me. I am not on any medications, I am getting more headaches then I used to, and no matter how much sleep I get at night, I constantly feel tired and have no energy.

I have not gone to see a doctor yet, but I don’t know what it could be. It looks more like bloating than weight gain. Cancer is very strong in my family but nothing that is hereditary, except my mother was diagnosed last year with colon cancer and was 43, and bloating was a symptom with her. I’m only 19, going to be 20 in July.

The other symptoms don’t fit, but I don’t understand what it could be. I have gained 7 pounds in just a week and half, and the weight isn’t stopping. What do I do?

Answer:

Gaining a lot of weight in a short period of time can indicate a medical issue. It is important that you call your doctor and make an appointment to get this evaluated promptly. [With the symptoms you mentioned and the family history you shared, it is also important to seek medical advice on this matter.] After your medical evaluation, if the doctor feels that your problem is diet related, you can then see a Registered Dietitian (RD) to help design the right diet to help you.

Good luck to you.

For more information:

Go to the Obesity and Weight Management health topic.