Endocrine Issues and Hormonal Weight Gain

The endocrine system produces hormones to regulate the body’s processes, including metabolism. Metabolism is the process the body uses to convert and store energy.

Not all endocrine disorders cause changes in the patient’s weight, but rapid, unexplained weight gain may be linked to endocrine issues that affect metabolism, hunger, energy levels, and the accumulation of fat. Some endocrine conditions that can cause weight gain include:

• Hypothyroidism- This condition is caused by an underactive thyroid gland. Because the gland doesn’t produce enough hormones to regulate metabolism, patients often experience weakness, weight gain, thinning hair, impaired memory, and other symptoms.
• Cushing Syndrome -Also called hypercortisolism, Cushing syndrome is caused by an excessive amount of cortisol (a hormone). It can occur naturally or as the result of certain medications. The syndrome often causes discolored stretch marks, high blood pressure, and a rounded face.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)- Women with this disorder may have excessive amounts of androgen, another hormone. PCOS can cause irregular periods, excess body and facial hair, and enlarged ovaries. The syndrome can by caused by weight gain, and people who are obese are more likely to experience severe symptoms.
• Prader-Willi Syndrome- This complex genetic syndrome causes symptoms in childhood. Patients feel constant hunger, which can lead to overeating.

A qualified physician will need to assess the patient to diagnose any of these medical conditions. However, while some endocrine disorders require lifelong treatment, medications and therapies can help patients limit their symptoms.

Treatment Options for Endocrine Disorders

The endocrine system is complex, and different patients may require very different treatments. People should work with endocrinologists — doctors that specialize in diagnosing and treating endocrine issues — to form a treatment plan.

Potential treatments for endocrine problems include:

• Surgery- Some endocrine issues are caused by cancer and other diseases. Surgeons may need to remove tumors, glands, or other structures, particularly when patients don’t respond to other treatments.
• Hormone Therapy- Because some endocrine disorders may prevent the body from releasing certain hormones, doctors may prescribe treatments to help the patient produce (and utilize) these chemical signals.
• Hormone Suppression Therapy- If a disorder causes the patient’s body to create too much of a certain hormone, prescription medications can often restore balance. Some patients need to take hormone suppression therapies and hormone replacement therapies for their entire lives.

Other therapies treat the symptoms of the disorder. Patients who have gained weight may need special diets and exercise plans in addition to other treatments. Fortunately, many endocrine disorders can be managed effectively, allowing for a high quality of life and a normal lifespan.

What to Know About Alternative Therapies for Endocrine Dysfunction

Some patients use B vitamins, fish oil, zinc, iodine, arginine, and various other remedies like acupuncture and yoga to treat their conditions. However, endocrine disorders are extremely complex. Some medical issues can cause serious health problems when left untreated, and some alternative therapies can interfere with medications.

Patients who consider these options should discuss them with their endocrinologists. Some doctors may approve the use of supplements and therapeutics, but they’ll need to know about them in order to ensure that the patient gets appropriate treatment.

When used along with medical treatment, some complementary therapies can help patients by reducing the side effects of treatment and relieving stress. However, according to the American Thyroid Association, there is no scientific evidence to show that non-medical treatments can replace scientific treatments or cure the endocrine disorders that cause weight changes.

Researching Endocrine Disorders and Symptoms Online

It’s important to know that significant weight changes can put stress on the body and cause serious health issues. Patients who notice concerning symptoms should always discuss options with their doctors. Likewise, people should seek medical guidance before using supplements and alternative therapies.

When looking online for information about weight gain, endocrine disorders, and medications, read carefully. Make sure that claims are supported by facts. Look for at least 3-4 resources, particularly when evaluating symptoms and treatment options. Most importantly, people who experience symptoms should have open, honest conversations with their doctors. Researching online can make this much easier.