The blame for being overweight can normally be placed on the simple equation that we are consuming more calories than we are burning off, through a combination of eating too much of the wrong foods and not exercising enough; and that we can only achieve a healthy weight with a balanced, healthy diet and active lifestyle.

However, in some instances weight gain can at least partly be attributed to already existing health problems, or the medication we take to treat it.

1. Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism, also known as thyroid hormone deficiency, is a condition caused by low levels of the hormones produced by the thyroid gland, which are used to manage the body’s metabolism. More common in women than men, the symptoms can often take years to develop and can be associated with weight gain in many people.

These hormones manage the body’s metabolism; the chemical reactions that break down molecules in food and convert it into energy. This essential process enables muscle growth and development, keeps our organs and functions working properly and helps to repair the body when damaged.

Weight gain is a well known side effect of hypothyroidism. However, the amount of weight gain directly caused by the condition is relatively modest, usually amounting to around 5 to 10 pounds, and rarely more than 20 pounds, most of which is salt and water.If you have gained weight, but are not showing any other symptoms of hyperthyroidism, it is unlikely that you have the condition.

Similarly, if you are being treated successfully for hyperthyroidism, but are still overweight, this will most likely be caused by other factors as you will be able to gain and lose weight in the same way as someone without the condition.

2. PCOS 

PCOS, which stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is thought to affect up to one in five women in the United Kingdom. Many don’t experience any symptoms, but in cases where they do, they tend to manifest themselves in women during their late teens or early 20s.

The condition is thought to be linked to a resistance to the hormone insulin and disproportionate levels of androgens (male sex hormones which are also present in women).

The androgens present in women also cause extra weight gained to sit around the waist, which increases the risk of problems such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

There is no cure for PCOS, but it can be managed with lifestyle changes, medication or a combination of both. Losing weight with exercise and adjustments to your diet can greatly improve your condition, with a loss of just five per cent of your total body weight showing noticeable results.

You may also be prescribed hormonal and weight loss medication, and the use of fertility treatments can enable the majority of women with PCOS to have children.

3. Depression and Anxiety

One in four of us are affected by a mental health issue each year. While many people experiencing depression and anxiety actually lose weight, the symptoms can cause others to put weight on. Both can have serious health implications.

Disturbed sleep patterns, a lack of energy or motivation and feeling hopeless can cause those affected to avoid physical or outdoor activities and eat fatty and sugary foods for comfort. When someone puts weight on, they can further lose self-confidence or feelings of self-worth, and the cycle of poor diet and weight gain continues. There are many measures someone can take to help improve their mental well being. In addition to consulting with a doctor about medication, talking therapies, mindfulness and exercise can help too.

4. Fluid Retention 

Medically referred to as edema, this accumulation of fluid under the surface of the skin between areas of tissue or in one of the body’s organs is extremely common, especially in the feet and lower legs. While in some cases it can simply be a short term symptom of standing up all day, it can also be a signifying a more serious medical condition.

Weight gain is just one of the symptoms of edema (swelling), with soreness of the muscles, joints and limbs, and changes in the colour of the skin being among others. The symptoms of fluid retention often clear up on their own, but if they persist you should see you doctor to check that it is not part of an underlying health issue.

5. Cushing’s Syndrome

Cushing’s Syndrome is when your body produces too much of the stress hormone cortisol. The weight gain associated with Cushing’s syndrome affects the face as well as the middle section of the body. Fat also builds in the area between the shoulders and the back of the neck, forming a ‘hump’. People with the condition can develop fragile skin, which allows it to bruise easily, become discoloured and show stretch marks. They can also have high blood pressure, brittle bones, problems with fertility and depression.

Cushing’s Syndrome can be caused by taking steroids or by a tumour. If you’re worried you may have Cushing’s, speak to your doctor and let them know if you’re taking steroids.

Talking to your doctor

If you’ve become concerned about your weight, you should make an appointment to see your doctor. They will be able to talk to you about how it can be influenced by other underlying health issues and if they affect you.

Not only will they be able to help with medication if required, they may also be able to help you implement lifestyle changes which can improve your overall health and help you lose weight, if necessary.