It can be intimidating to bring up the subject of weight. If you’ve gained weight recently, you may feel insecure or embarrassed. Try to remember you should put your health first. This is a sensitive issue and should be given the time it deserves. Try to bring it up early if it’s just a regular physical. If your doctor doesn’t want to make it a priority for a visit, find a new doctor.
Weight gain can increase your risk for a lot of health issues. Ask your doctor if your blood pressure was normal and if they recommend any tests. You should also ask your doctor whether you need to lose weight. Ask about how to cultivate a healthier lifestyle through exercise and healthy eating. Ask about your risk factors as well. If you’ve put on weight, you may increase your risk for a variety of health problems. If you have a family history of things like heart disease, you may have a greater risk of developing medical complications due to weight gain.
If your weight gain is sudden and you haven’t undergone any major lifestyle changes, it may be a medical issue. Let your doctor know if your weight gain is inexplicable. Your doctor may want to test for something, like a thyroid disorder, to try to determine the cause of your weight gain. Medication can also sometimes cause weight gain. Bring up any new medications you’re taking and ask about potential alternatives. You may be struggling to maintain a lifestyle that allows for a healthy weight. Talk to your doctor about your stress levels, work life, and personal responsibilities.
You also may have questions regarding some of your doctor’s suggestions. If you’re not sure how to make the lifestyle changes your doctor recommends, ask for more specifics.
Unwanted weight loss can be a symptom of a variety of medical ailments, including serious conditions like cancer. [8] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Do not wait to see your doctor about this one. Make an appointment with your doctor to specifically discuss your weight.
You might notice, for example, that your appetite has decreased since you started a new medication. Your doctor may suggest switching to a different medication or adjusting your dosage. Let your doctor know about any stress or emotional issues you’re dealing with. These elements can have a huge impact on your weight. If you are having difficulty gaining weight, tell your doctor what you’ve been eating and about any other symptoms you may be having.
Ask your doctor if they think you need to gain weight. While you may be unhappy with how you look, your doctor may think your current weight is healthy. If your doctor thinks you need to gain, ask them for suggestions on healthy ways to do so. You should ask your doctor if your issues with weight could be caused by an underlying health condition. Ask about your current health. Make sure things like your blood pressure and cholesterol levels are healthy.
You also want to make sure you fully understand any recommendations your doctor offers. If you’re confused about something, stop your doctor and say something! If your doctor is not willing to go over this information with you, then think about switching to a doctor who is.
If you suffer from an eating disorder or mental health issue, let your doctor know. It can be uncomfortable discussing mental health problems with a doctor and a not a therapist or psychiatrist, but keep in mind your health is crucial.
Before the appointment, keep a food diary tracking the foods you eat, how much you eat, how often you eat, and the approximate number of calories you consume. Mention how many meals you eat a day, whether you snack or not, and what types of food you gravitate towards. Do not withhold information. If you have poor eating habits, you may be embarrassed to disclose them to a doctor; however, remember that nothing is more important than your health!
Let your doctor know how much you exercise. If you do not exercise at all, say so. If you work out two hours a day, admit to this as well. You should be honest about other lifestyle factors your doctor may ask about. If you smoke or drink, let your doctor know. If you are gaining weight, you may need to exercise more; however, excess exercise can be unhealthy for very slender people looking to gain weight.
You may not be comfortable opening up to your doctor. Keep in mind you don’t have to share details, but you can give vague explanations about your current stress level. If you’ve made any lifestyle changes due to stress, let your doctor know.
Hyperthyroidism is a condition that can speed up your metabolism and make it difficult to gain weight. Your doctor may request a blood test to check your thyroid. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a relatively common condition that can cause weight loss due to excessive diarrhea and gastrointestinal problems.
Migraine medications, heart medications, antidepressants, and diabetes medications can all affect weight. Let your doctor know if you’re taking any of these types of meds. Also, talk to your doctor about any non-prescription medications or supplements you take. These may contribute to weight issues.
