Abnormal weight gain can occur intentionally or unintentionally. In addition, weight gain may be rapid or slow.
Warning signs (red flags)
- If a young woman has abnormal weight gain, pregnancy must be considered.
- Abnormal weight gain in an elderly patient with recent onset is suggestive of cardiac congestive heart failure (CHF/heart failure) or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).
- Rapid weight gain is indicative of edema (water retention).
- A predominantly abdominal circumferential increase may indicate pregnancy, ascites (abdominal fluid), or a tumor (e.g., ovarian tumor/ovarian tumor).
