When many people think of the term illness, it might be associated with individuals who tend to lose weight, secondary to their symptoms. Chronic illness, in sharp contrast, is much more likely to be associated with weight gain.
Some medical conditions themselves, including hypothyroidism, are associated with weight gain. There are many categories of prescription medications that directly promote weight gain. For example, corticosteroids and antidepressants are notorious for weight gain.
Due to their specific symptoms, individuals with chronic illness may not be able to exercise on a regular basis. Chronic illness is very stressful; long-term stress is associated with excess release of cortisol, a hormone that promotes weight gain.
I’ve struggled with chronic illness-induced weight gain, for all of the above reasons. It’s been a very difficult adjustment for me.
For many years, I weighed substantially less. No woman wants to buy larger-sized clothing. Our society remains very judgmental toward those who are overweight.
Many mistakenly conclude that those who are overweight only need to eat less, and to exercise more. If only it were that simple.
