Sudden Weight Gain but Not Pregnant

[joeshell]

I'll be 46 at the end of this month & just moved to a new state so I don't have the luxury of knowing any doctors.  In the last 1-2 months I suddenly gained 40 + lbs & look pregnant.   That seems to be where the weight all is.  A urinalysis proved negative for pregnancy on Monday & with my 3 grown kids I did not gain this much weight &/or so fast.  I just look pregnant & feel "full - heavy - tired & short of breath" most of the time.  Tomorrow I go for a Pelvic ultrasound w/a full bladder.  The day after I am scheduled for an Abdomen ultrasound - w/fasting.  Any idea what we are looking for or what could cause this?  I can barely eat because I feel so full & yet it's lately that I've gained the most weight.  I am not in pain, I just feel miserable - like over due.  When I asked at the doctor's office what could cause this & what we are looking for they said 'a cyst, tumor, or cancer'...... I would kind of like a bit more information if at all possible.  In the last week I gained another 10lbs & I know this can not be good or keep on.  

Thanks,
JoeShell

[Princess42468]

Did you ever get any answers? I have the same thing going on...and no known cause or resolution as of yet after seeing several doctors....beyond desperate and frustrated at this point.

C

[carma99]

Did you get any medical diagnosis yet? I gained 22 pounds in 4 days and we have ruled out failing kidneys and heart problems and my doctor is clueless.

Carma
***@****

[att]

I have the same problem and have had all the ultrsounds pregnancy test and so on. I am frustrated and don,t know what to do now. Drs. say I am fine but this cannot be ok. I have the same exact symptoms as you.

[EL0405]

I , too, have the same thing, One day I woke up and was swollen from head to toe- once the rest of my body's swelling went down, my stomach & pelvis area were still swollen- looking as if I was 7 -8 months pregnant, I have had ultrasounds done, bloodwork drawn, colonoscopy, Barium Enema- and still, I am no wiser than before. I am now schedued to see an Oncologist. The frustration of gaing over 35 pounds in less than 2 moinths is depressing  and frustrating. I was wondering if you had received any answers to your symptoms. I am a 50 year old post menpausel woman and they did find a small cyst on my left ovary- but the Dr's said that it was of no concern. If , by any chance, you have heard of what this mysterious ailment is, I would be grateful if you shared the news with me

[jenijlynn]

I really do not have much knowledge about the exact name but my mother had these EXACT same symptoms!! Her belly looked like she was 7 months prego as well and she was 51 years at the time.  She finally got diagnosed with liver disease and Hepatitis and it was very serious. I don't know anything else about it but if you haven't got any answers from your doc yet maybe ask them about liver disease?

[Curious6789]

hi there, I am in the same boat. I have gained 20lbs, in the last 2 months. My doctor thinks that it is my thyroid, its Underactive. I went for blood tests on Mon, and I go see the doctor today, so I will let you know what happens.

[julesRN]

Wow, this is crazy becuase I am having the same symptoms.  I have not gained as much as you all (about a pound a week so far) but it's only been 5 weeks and I've been into a 6-day a week, 6-week program for almost 4 weeks.  I've also been eating better.  I just can't figure it out!  I've had to go buy some new clothes in a bigger size because I have nothing to wear.  I'm wondering if it has to do with hormones.  Ever since a m/c in Jan. at 14 weeks my blood pressure has been up, I've had headaches, and my normal palpatations have increased.  I'm so sick of feeling like this!!  I, too, feel pg but I know I'm not.  A few weeks ago my OB signed off on me but told me to see my family doc because my bp was going up.  I watched my bp at home and we found that it would get high anytime I go to the office.  I'm really hesitant to go back there!  But I'm sick of feeling so incredibly bloated and FAT.  I've been trying to lose weight since my 5th child 2 years ago and all of a sudden all my hard work has flown out the window.  This is ridiculous!

[julesRN]

I forgot to mention that I, too, had my thyroid checked and everything was normal.  It's making me wonder if there really is something wrong.

[g50]

I gain weight durring stressful situations. I had a friend who was in her 50's and she agained alot of weight and fast . She too could not find the solution untill one dayI think it was her apendex acted up and she had to have it removed. When they went to remove it the doctors were surprised she had a huge sack full of fluid. They removed the equvelant of 2 large jugs of milk from her tomack. It turns out the ultrasound did not pick it up because it was fluid so it did not show. The fluid was tested and all I heard from her it was a mixure of blood and lack of doctor term water. She dropped about 30 + lbs from this. She did not need to use her scooter as much after going to physo. Go figure thats all I know of her situation. It never returned.
I feel for you's very much. Are you diabetic? I have no clue.

[gettingchunky]

i am 37 . i too have gains weight. i weighed 135 a month and a half ago...today i weigh 173....for a total of 38 lbs!i weigh more now than when i gave birth , all 3 times! i don't understand. tho possible peri-menopause ? i also have had some night sweats . some woke me up w/ horrible electric heat in my back . sometimes i wake up on cold wet sheets.. i am getting pimples , unsightly hair ,and my boobs LITERALLY feel like huge heavy bowling balls. i have practiced some running but feel like i'm dying when i do it . and further more the very next morning i swear....i have gained more weight! i am literally gaining weight EVERY DAY.

[Missannoyed]

That is so wierd , I weighed 135 , or under forever than suddenly hit 170 , gaining weight daily also . I have never been this large in my life . If you find out your cause please let us know !  I cant afford to see a doctor without insurance , so any ADVICE ?

[RockRose]

Missannoyed,  the original poster was over a year ago.  It seems unlikely she'll return.

You need to see a doctor.  I know you don't have insurance,  but priorities are priorities, and if you're gaining weight DAILY your health is at grave risk.

Money is only money.  Your life is worth more than that.

Best wishes.  I hope it works out for you.

[gainingagain]

I have been having this same issue, a couple of years ago for some reason all the sudden I started gaining weight, I weighed 135 and got up to 175 within a matter of months.  Then after that all the sudden I lost 50lbs within a matter of a few months, that stayed off for a year.  Now once again I am gaining weight at a rapid speed.  Since September of this year I have gained about 25 almost 30lbs and most of that being within the last few weeks, I too gain weight daily.  I have had my thyroid checked many times and nothing, all tests come back normal.  Recently I did have a bout of an inflamed colon with bleeding, on Monday I am supposed to be having a EGD and a colonoscopy.  I have had one before but it showed nothing.  This is all very upsetting considering the way things are these days and I don't have enough money to just being going and buying clothes every other weekend.  If there is anything out there that would help me please write back I am in desperate need here.  Thanks and regards,
Kari

[ms_dance]

5'1", age 34, vegetarian (15 years), active, dance instructor, current (last 2 months) weight 130 and gaining (usuall weight 112-115). Went from sz 0 to sz 4. Just did full blood panel-- I am perfect..., nothing wrong... but still: during the day fatigue would hit me so hard that I colapse on the floor and could not move for good 5-10 minutes. At nights I sweat so bad that usually need to change pillows and all sheets in the middle of the night. When I catch a little cold, my lymphnodes swell up so badly that I can not move my arms. ... my next step is to ask doc's to check my liver and my lymphomatic system. This is unbelievable. I have no idea what to do and do not understand why doctors are so "hands-off". If anyone finds an answer to your problem, please let us know!

[sweetifiwannabe]

I was just wondering if anyone had any further info yet in regard to these issues listed?
It appears that several people are having the same problems and they dont have a clue either. I too weigh more than I did when I gave birth to any of my 3 children and this is weight gain all in the past couple of years. I look 8 or 9 months pregnant.!
It's driving me nuts and so uncomfortable. Alot of people wanna chalk it all off to 'peri menapause', but i know several women my age that are NOT gaining the weight like this. My normal weight has always been 100 to 115 my whole life and this is so uncomfortable for me. I've been tryin to do some research which is how i came upon this blog and I was surprised to read the rest of the ladies comments. I havent started going to the Dr yet but it's coming. I'm just dredding going thru all sorts of tests that arent needed and cant tell me anything,, and have to be paid for.
So if theres any word yet, it'd be great to hear back.
Thanks tons
Deb
51 yrs old

[stillundiagnosed]

I had similar symptoms several years ago. It started with bleeding from the colon at age 16, but doctors were clueless. A colonscopy showed nothing. This continued off and on for several years. At 28, I began to miss periods and have hot flashes. Every now and then, I suffered from huge sporadic weight gains despite no changes in diet or exercise regimen. By 32, I couldn't get pregnant, and my doctor found out I was in early menopause. My ovaries got an ultrasound, but didn't show cysts. My bladder was also checked and nothing was found. My blood test showed normal hormone levels, except for my FSH which was high. By 36, I was completely through menopause even though all the other women in my family (3 sisters, mother, aunt, 4 female cousins) were fertile through their 40s and had periods through their 50s. I am now 42 and going through another fast weight game right now - 2 lbs a day. Only a low carb diet will keep the weight off - I can cut calories and work out 'til the cows come home, but I still put on weight. My blood sugar is 99. My thyroid is normal, but I have low blood pressure. A new odd development - cysts all over my legs - as of last year. Two doctors say they are lypomas, but they are hard and red. My doctor did blood tests and everything is good to normal. Any ideas?

[LisainChitown73]

I was a size 4, around 140 at 5'7", then the past two months I gaineda bout 15 pounds. I work out at least 3-4 times a week, super athletic, don't eat too bad. Went to my doctor - he did liver and thyroid. it came back normal. He was nasty to me and didn't offer anything up except that i need to work out more...I feel like my food is not processing and is all in my belly. Did any of you with similar symptoms find otu what was wrong from your doctor?
I'm going to another doctor for a second opinion and this time it's a woman.

[sweetifiwannabe]

Well,, I know I havent heard or read or found out anything new since I wrote in here.
I keep putting off doing to the Dr cuz I just totaly dred it. I know they will start some ''process of illimination'' stuff that will only end up costing me an arm & leg in the long run cuz I dont have any insurance.
But,,, I do not feel that this weight gain is due to me overeating either.
I dont do anything any differently lately than I ever did before.
Other than I stopped smoking back in March,,, so I expected to gain a few pounds there,, but this weight gain started long before that even.
I have gained nearly 50/60 lbs in the past 3 years or maybe a little less time.
So i could correct the 'rapid' part a little bit,, but still,,, it is way more than ever before in my lifetime. I barely recognize myself in the mirror anymore and it doesnt seem to be getting any better. I have tried different things that use to cause me to drop a few pounds almost right away and nothing works.
I am full & bloated and look 9 months pregnant. It's rediculous.
If I hear or read or find out anything new I will come back and update this too.
Thanks
Deb

[sweetifiwannabe]

OH YEA,,, I am a bit concerned since we havent heard anything at all from the original poster. It worries me that she hasnt been back,,, so I'm really hoping that shes had good news and things are ok with her,, rather than the alternative.

[mma4]

I, too, have been experiencing the unexplained, rapid weight gain!!! I am almost 39 years old. I am heavier then I ever have been, even at the delivery of each of my 4 children! Just a few months ago, I was 3 pant sizes smaller. I can litterally feel the weight gain weekly. I have done NOTHING differently then I have done my entire life. No eating changes...nothing, just pounds litterally packing on. I have had blood tests...and of course just KNEW it was my thyroid. I was SHOCKED to find out my thryoid was fine! I have so many of the symptoms! I am tired, lethargic, short of breath, no lebido, my hair is falling out of my eyebrows, I am forgetful, I snore like you would NOT believe...the list goes on and on....my Dr. has been very willing to do whatever test she can think of....but everything is NORMAL!!! What is going on??? She seems to think this is just part of the aging process. My metabolism is slowing down??? Is THIS how it happens?? Just BOOM? You pack on the pounds all of a suddon??? I just don't FEEL like ME anymore physically? I would LOVE to know if anyone out there finds an answer!!! My doc even tested me to see if my body was making "antibodies" to my thyriod..but nope...normal agian! I tried to low carb diet...last time I did that...wow...pounds just MELTED off..within months I lost like 40lbs...THIS time I tried..I CONTINUED to GAIN weight!!! I feel like this is hopeless!!!! HELP!!!!!

[myopathymom]

To anyone with this sudden weight gain problem...please see an endocrinologist.  One possibility is Cushing's Syndrome or Cushing's Disease.  Another is prophoria.  These are not all that difficult to diagnose, but may not be on the mind of an internist who may just think women gain weight from emotional stuff (ie, eating to calm feelings a la Oprah).  

Another thing to check is medication side effects.

I'm not certain about weight gain, but a pregnant looking belly can be from uterine fibroids.

A big belly from fluid trapped like in one post is often from liver problem and can be very serious.

I'm not in health care, but I have been trying to figure out weight gain in my daughter, so I've learned a bit along the way.  Her situation is probably medication side effect, but we are ruling out cushing's.

[GotTheBlues525]

Hi there - I'm a 36 year old mother of one.  I have been successfully and happily living a low carb lifestyle for nearly 2 years!  It has agreed with me right from the start and I lost approx. 30 pounds in the first 5 months.  I then successfully maintained my weight at 139-143 for the last year and a half.  LOVE low carb!  After feeling as though I had finally gotten a grip on a better style of eating for myself and had become very regimented with my carb intake, I felt confident to take on my next "evil" and quit smoking in October 2008.  

I used Chantix to help with this process and completed the full 12 week cycle of Chantix before stopping it as prescribed about 5 weeks ago.  I am happy to report I am still smoke free!  However, I had gained approx. 4-5 pounds over the 3 months of Chantix/quitting.  

Therefore, I put myself back to Induction level carb intake (20 grams or less a day) to kick start taking off the 5 pound gain as well as started a 3x per week exercise regimen of walking/running a mile or two on the treadmill as well as leg lifts, ab workouts etc to try and kick up my progress even further.  Should be a breeze right????  WRONG.  

For 4 weeks I did not weigh myself while I pressed on with my plan (as I can be a bit of a scale watcher).  But after 4 weeks of not weighing myself, taking in less carbs, and exercising I knew I was not progressing... could just FEEL the stagnation.  

Well, I finally DID weigh myself just 4 days ago and durning that 4 week cycle I not only showed zero progress I ACTUALLY GAINED 15 POUNDS!!!!!!  That's right - 15 in 4 weeks!  I've never gained like this in my life!! Even during my most monthly gain during my pregnancy and during THAT I had a total gain of 60 pounds in 10 months!!!

I am at a loss.  So depressed.  So overwhelmed.  So beaten down.  I just cry at the drop of a hat now........  

Is it a side effect of Chantix even though I completed it a month ago???  Is it thyroid issues???  Something else???  I haven't felt so miserable and out of control of my body EVER!!!!!!!!  I have been so depressed and can think of nothing else.  I feel so unattractive.  I feel like a failure.  Before this terrible quick onset gain, I felt confident and proud and sexy and accomplished.  I front a blues/jazz band and feeling good about myself helps me do my job as a singer.  Without my usual confident self, I fear how I will handle my next performance in just a few days..............  I am so down.

I did see my doctor yesterday and he had bloods drawn to check for thyroid.  I did present with Grave's Eye Disease 2 years ago and so the likelihood of a compromised thyroid is possible with me but I can't help but feel like I've somehow missed something and don't know what???  The thyroid tests won't come back soon enough, I can assure you!  I will come back and post follow ups for you to read and maybe my discoveries will help someone else who comes to this board exasperated and heavy overnight!  

I would appreciate knowing if any of the previous posters have found answers to their problem???  Please give an update if you would.  

Thank you all and many blessings.

[barbarastraughn]

I am so pleased to find that others are suffering like I am.  I woke up Christmas Eve morning, so swollen that I had to wear a tracksuit all over Christmas.  I have gone up 11/2 clothes sizes in a few days.  I have just had a Mirena coil fitted to try and cut down on the heavy bleeding and bleeding between periods.  I had an ultrasound at New Year which showed several small fibroids which they didn't think were causing the bleeding.  The doctor has identified a small hard sore which she thinks is a cyst on my cervix.  I have a check up in 5 weeks for the coil and the cyst.  I have a third smear test in April although the last one (October) was normal they said.  I am so tired of looking pregnant, feeling heavy and bloated -  and having cramps, now I seem to have diarheaa as well. (sorry can't spell) The doctors don't have a clue.  I will update this if I find out any information at all to help everyone..

[GotTheBlues525]

UPDATE:

Well, the verdict is in and the diagnosis is "extreme hypothyroid".  So I am happy to say that I am not going nuts after all!!!  LOL  I've been placed on Synthroid and will be rechecked every 6 weeks for awhile until the dosing is correct and the levels are healthy.  I will also be seeing an endocrinologist in a couple of weeks to continue care through him.  

Moral of my story:  TRUST YOURSELF.  If you feel "off" then insist on investigating why!  I knew I was not myself and thankful I listened to my body and sought out help from my doctor.  I will be working very hard to drop the extra weight that came over me during the last month or so before diagnosis.  I need to feel my "old self" again!  

[almosthopeless]

I can't believe this is happening to so many of us. I have always been petite- . It seems like in a matter of 2 weeks I gained enough to not fit into my favorite jeans. I have purchased clothing in a size bigger. I am now 38 and had been wearing the same size since 19 until 2 months ago.  I do have an underactive thyroid but that was diagnosed years ago in 2001. Last time I went to the dr  I was told my med level was to high ( by a little)... though I did not change it because I am gaining weight. I have tried everything... even  liposuction. I keep getting bigger. I do not know why this has happened so suddenly and what to do. I am a vegetarian really into physical fitness. I am at a loss. Even the much renouned ACAI berry has not worked. If anyone out there has found out why this is occuing it would be great to know. I do plan on seeing a dr but will be out of town for a while so a lenghtly process of elimination is really not in my future... at least for a few months. I am terrified to think what I will look like if I wait a few months. Has anyone had any luck with slimfast or metafast???

[tweetygirl431]

hi i am only fifteen and i gain a pound a week i have ultrasounds done my thyroid checked pregnancy test i am younger than most of you guys but i have been experiencing the same symptoms im really nervous so any advice would be great

[marymo362]

I am sitting here in tears because this is ME TOO... in the last few weeks I have gained 20 pounds. My body is swollen, I ache, my belly is distended.
I went to my dr yesterday (I have Hashimotos Thyroiditis) for a full blood panel of all thyroid tests. I have a "catch" in my throat when swallowing.
I was going to boot camp several times a week, even though I am obese and way overweight and stuck to eating plan as well as exercising. I am 47 years old and am peri-menopausal.
I admit to being really concerned that this is something more than hypothyroid related.
I can't exercise now, I have thee pants that fit, I look like hell and feel worse. I can't stand anything binding my abdomen at all.
I am sorry other people have this happening but also am finding some relief that I am not alone. I could use some reassurance if anyone is listening. Thank you so much and hang in there everyone

[doodler]

Hi, I came across this post after searching sudden weight gain on google.  I have put on 7 lb in 2 weeks.  I was eating less during this time trying to lose a couple of pounds, so was shocked.  The only change I had made was giving up decaf coffee and having liquorice tea instead.  I think in my case this might be the problem.  It turns out that liquorice tea has the effect of producing cortisol, which can lead to weight gain.  I was having 4-5 cups a day.  I've now stopped and my weight has stabalized.  I'll let you know if it starts going down.  Liquorice tea has a lot of health benefits, I guess I was just having too much of it, and didn't need the extra cortisol effect.  Was also experiencing thumping palpitaions and lightheadedness, headaches and tiredness.  Hoping it is just the tea.  Might be worth thinking about what herbs or chemicals you are having daily and checking the cautions.  I hope you are all finding your answers somewhere, shedding the unwanted pounds and feeling better.

[bbberrypatch]

Oh Wow guess what?  Me, too.  I have had blood tests and two ultrasounds, a transvaginal, and abdominal.  The doctor couldn't feel my uterus(due to the swollen gut) during a routine pap, so he is ordering all these tests and will do a biopsy.He ordered a TSH, FSH, and CBC blood test.  My troubles seem to have started since Mother's day.  I noticed that I was getting bigger in the belly and was making jokes about being pregnant.  Other people noticed and asked me about it, that is when I got a bit concerned.  I have put on at least 25 lbs. and the only place that swells is my belly.Swelling is more later in day, after food.  I have started trying not to eat as it makes me so uncomfortable.  My butt and thighs are the same size.  I admit to being overweight,but this is getting obscene.  I am also having heavier that normal periods and feeling very tired and my legs ache.  I am positive that pregnancy is not an issue.  I am celibate and have had tubal ligation 21 years ago.  Probably menopausal but again weird stuff.  Will try to get back to post later but if anything is learned let me know.

[proudgranny]

I am new here, and after reading these posts, I see that I am not alone with these symptoms.
I am 55, post menapausal, and have gained 40 pounds in 2 months. I too have had to buy larger size clothes to fit my larger size.  My 5'5" small boned frame went from 150 lbs to 190 lbs so fast!  My PCP gave me a lecture on my weight gain and ordered TSH and CBC twice. They all came back within normal limits. In addition to the weight gain similar to those posted here, I have been having lower right abdominal pain and pain above my belly button. When the doctor pressed near the belly button, I felt pain there and it radiated to my lower right abdomoen. I had a CT scan which showed normal apendix and gall bladder. As a matter of fact, they said everything was normal from the CT scan.  However they never mentioned ovaries, uterus or any of the reproductive organs.  What they DID say was that I was experiencing muscle spasms.  Yet, they didn't say what muscles were going into spasms.  This pain is sometimes dull, and sometimes very painful.  I was told to take tylenol for the pain.
Now, after reading here, I am going to be more pro active in my health care and ask for additional testing.
I am just wondering if anyone else experiences the pain like I have explained and what kinds of tests were done.

[doodler]

Well, I said I'd get back to you, so here I am.  The half stone I put on in just over a week came off in 3 days after I gave up the liquorice tea!  My heart palpitations are less frequent and I'm feeling much healthier.  Thanks to anyone who read my posts and good luck with your sudden weight gain.  I hope you all find the cause soon and feel better. xx

[hawkeye10]

I am 21 and have been struggling with weight gain since March.  I put on 30 lbs in 10 weeks and then just kept gaining.  I ran 2 miles a day and did core exercises everyday, but the weight kept adding up.  My mom is a doctor and even she can't figure out what is going on with me.  I have had so many blood tests, CTs, and MRIs; yet, everything comes back normal.  I know that there is something wrong with me because I'm currently sleeping close to 16 hours every day.  I have tried so many diets, but nothing works; I feel that it makes everything worse.  Today I found out that I have normal cortisol levels and do not have Cushing's Syndrome...I'm running out of patience and faith.  I need a diagnosis.

[bbberrypatch]

I posted that I too have these symptoms, and the tests that the doctor has done.  I am proud to say that I am cancer-free, no fibroids or polyps, blood work is in the normal range.  He did say that the heavy periods were peri-menopausal and suggested ablation.  Also saw no fluid build-up in abdomen, but suggested an Internist or gastrosomething or other.  I have started taking probiotic enzymes for digestion.  I am also taking vesicare for bladder stuff.  I still am swelling and feeling yucky, but I think that the cancer-free  stuff made me think that whatever this is I can beat it and hopefully find an answer.  It has also been suggested that I might want them to look at the gallbladder and liver.  Anything helpful you hear please post so we can use it to find answers to our ballooning bellies.

[Judy4601]

Not to be repeating everyone has already said, but I to am suffering the same weight issues. I am 46, in good health, don't eat horribly, not feeling overly fatigued or any particular symptoms except the extreme weight gain.  In three months I have put on over 30 pounds. I think we should post things we're doing that may be in common.  I use alot of nutra sweetened (like Equal) in my coffee which is frequent. Anyone else?  I am planning to go to the doctor but after hearing all this don't see a good reason to go to hear nonsense.

[bbberrypatch]

still no news the pro-biotics help minimally, but not solution.  I have a blow-up every so often and belly gets hard, full, and prego-looking.  No gas to speak of but pain yes. I can't pinpoint foods as cause as one time salad, next proteins, or fried foods.  had a major blowup earlier this week and ended up in ER.  No infection, or food poisoning but have been sick as a dog.  Am too follow up with doctor today wish me luck.

[poohbr]

Glad to see I am not the only one that has gained a lot of weight in a short amount of time. I've gained 25 lbs in 4 months. I look like I'm pregnant, my butt looks like a cow, I've gone from a size 0 to a size 5. The dr's can't find anything wrong. I do have a cysts on my left ovary but the dr isn't worried about it. I have had a partial hysterectomy back in 1993 and I stayed a 0 so I doubt it is that. I have been having a lot of hot flashes though. I'm sick of looking like this, my blood pressure is up, so I am thinking that all of this has something to do with each other. I just wish we could find out what is causing all of this, I have had blood tests even for cancer and everything is good. Has anyone found out anything on there problem would like to get something to go on.

Thanks
Poohb620

[FeelYucky]

I'm 26 and have been experiencing these same symptoms for a couple months now.  I've gained about 40 lbs in the last few months and can't explain the weight gain at all.  I also have the distended belly and have been asked if I'm pregnant, which I'm not.  One symptom that I have that I haven't seen mentioned is a bad pain between my shoulder blades.  This is really starting to cause me great distress.  I feel very tired all the time and could sleep day and night if I let myself.  I have also been getting headaches....3-4 times per week....and some of them are quite severe.
And if that's not enough....all this physical stuff is taking a toll on me emotionally.  I feel gross and almost hate leaving the house because nothing seems to fit right and I hate the way I look.
I went to the doctor last week and he sent me for some blood work, but in reading everyone else's comments I'm not expecting anything to show up in the blood work.  I go for the results tomorrow.
I will keep everyone updated as to what comes of this.  I will ask for every test in the book if I have to.  I won't stop until I find out what's wrong.

[fritzsgirl]

I have all the same symptoms, plus i have under active thyroid, insulin resistance and i have gained about twenty pounds in three weeks. I have been doing alot of research and my doctor is going to test for adrenal fatigue. you should definatly have this checked and atleast ruled out. Good Luck to Everyone.

[Mirjam44]

I have been so happy to find this website.  All this started back in December 2007 when all of a sudden I had high blood pressure after I never had this problem before.  I was always about 120 or so lbs and gained up to 135 in 2008.  I have struggled with my weight all through 2009 and literally do not eat that much, but definitely eat healthy, lots of salads and fish, nuts.  Work out 4-5 times @ week, 45 min plus cardio plus weights.  But it seems all this is not helping and to top it off now I get these little nausea spills a couple of times @ week.  I talked with my dr (gp) and he did a thyroid test, which was normal.  My gyno tests were all normal too.  I am 44 and have regular periods.  In July it got worse, I gain and loose.  Like 2 weeks ago I weighed in at 147, then down to 139 (4 days ago) then up to 148 as of today.  I feel full all the time and really do not eat that much.  I never was constipated  but as of July I have that too and need to drink the fiber drinkies to "go".  Everything is right in the front, I feel swollen.  My doctor said I just need to watch my calories (my calorie intake is not much more than 1000-1200 @ day).  I do not really have an appetite anyway thus not too hard to do.  You would think I lose some weight.  Nah.  I am literally desperate and have been looking on the internet for some answers when I found this site.  It makes me feel good to see I am not the only one and I definitely will make an appt with an endocrinologist.  Start there.  If anyone has suggestions, please let me know.  I also added this to my favorites so I can give an update.

[cknox1]

Someone help me please. I am eighteen. I have recently gained 40 pounds in less than three months.  I am really scared.  This seems impossible.  The strangest thing is that I just got on the scale and my weight was +10 lbs from a week ago.  I have been having terrible pains under my ribs.  These pains knock the breath out of me and cause me to have pain even standing while I'm at work.  I am a teenager. I should not have pains like this.  I also have been very tired but unable to sleep a full night.  My diet hasn't changed at all and I'm not stressed.  I need advice because I'm afraid I can't go on living this way.

[Fionared]

I am in the same boat.  I had a similar weight gain last year, but as mysteriously as the weight appeared...it seemed to fall off of me within a one month period.  However, I have gained 40 lbs in 2 months, my blood pressure has suddenly jumped after being controled with 5mg of Lisinepril.  I am getting married in 1 month and I look like I am 8 months prego!  I too had normal thyroid tests, however I had an elevated calcium level.  I did some research and found this was a possible indication of para-thyroid disease.  My doctor has had me repeat the blood tests to check the calcium level-I has been at 11.9 then would drop to 10.2 (normal limit).  I have extremely low iron level.  And I have been told I have uterine fibroids.  I am 45 years old and very physically active-hiking, kyaking, cross country skiing and have gone from 145 lbs to 187 lds in 2 months.  I also take 100 mg of zoloft daily.  I have completely stopped consuming sugar laden beverages and alcohol, and recently started eating 1 meal a day to avoid the bloated feeling.  If I eat more than that I feel like I have food coming back up into my throat.  
Have you learned anything about your condition?

[grannyat40]

I've been reading all of your articles, and as the rest of you are concerned about your health, so am I.  I hate to come out and say this, but my sister passed away, less than a month after turning 42 years old.  She was a big girl, so her symptoms went completely unnoticed, even by her.  I mean, the swelling etc.  That is, until she was so swollen, that she could barely get enough air to talk.  She sounded like someone who was hoarse, with a bad cold.  When she reached that point, she called me and told me that she was very "swollen".  I asked her if there was any chance at all that she was pregnant.  Of course there wasn't, since her tubes had been tied years ago.  Anyway, a couple of weeks went by and nothing changed.  She was getting bigger and bigger and could barely breath from all the swelling in her stomach area.  She was admitted to the hospital, where 17 liters of fluid was drained from her abdomen.  The doctors tested her for everything BUT ovarian cancer.  The big scare was that it might be her liver, since our father passed away at 60 years of age from liver cancer, but it was fine.  No liver cancer, she was thrilled.  But, on the 8th day of being in the hospital, the doctors tested the fluid they had drawn out of her for Ovarian Cancer, and that was exactly what it was.  This was on Dec. 18th of 2002.  By May of 2003, they were telling her how great she was doing.  No sign of anything.  She could "be the poster child for ovarian cancer".....No tumors, nothing!  (Nothing that they oucld see, anyway)  By the end of June, she took a drastic turn for the worse.  It's true, they didn't see any tumors, but she was far from being cancer free.  The cancer had lined the inside of her body like saran wrap, so they couldn't see it.  Her bowels became blocked and her body was collecting fluid over and over.  My sister died Aug. 2, 2003.  She didn't even live 8 months from the time she was diagnosed.  I've always been a small framed person, and every time my abdomen seems to be the least bit bloated, I nearly panic.  I live in a constant fear of this cancer.  I've noticed lately that I am gaining weight rather quickly, and it scares me to death.  Part of me wants to know if I'm carrying that gene and part of me doesn't.  There's a test that can be done.  It's called a CA-125 that can tell you if you have that gene or not, and my sister asked me to have it done, but I can't make myself do it.  Not yet, anyway.  I guess what I've been trying to get to, is that I'm surprised that more of you have not mentioned anything at all about your doctors testing you for ovarian cancer.  I only saw one person who had posted anything about being tested for cancer...or knowing that they didn't have cancer.  Testing fluid that your body may be holding or anything is a definate way of finding out.  It my opinion, it's the only way.  Ovarian cancer is not going to jump up and hit the doctors in the face.  They are not going to find it with a pap smear....,my sister never missed hers.  Make them test you, and if you don't feel right about how your body feels, don't give up.  I didn't write this to scare anyone, just to make you a little more aware.  I was totally ignorant to ovarian cancer.  When my sister told me she had it, I said, okay, we will just have everything removed and you will be fine...,.this cancer doesn't work that way.  You don't have time to wait on everyone else....keep searching if you don't get your answers.  As for the very first poster on here, when I read her post, and then looked at the date, my fear was that she had not made it....her story sounded all too familiar...but I pray that she did.  Good luck to all of you and I'll remember you in my prayers.  Just remember, if it's not normal, there's a reason behind it...make someone find it.  We only have this one life.....please remember me in your prayers as well.

[FeelYucky]

*****UPDATE*****

Don't have much of an update, but thought I'd post since it's been a bit since I posted last.  As I had suspected in my original post, there wasn't anything unusual about my blood tests.  The only thing that my doctor noticed was that my insulin levels were a bit high.  I've been told in the past that I'm insulin resistant.  He wasn't alarmed by this at all.  I have been referred to an endocrinologist and I'm hopeful that something he will be able to shed some light as to what is going on.  I will be meeting with the endocrinologist at the end of this month.

Thank you to everyone that has been posting.....there are many questions that I can ask when I meet with my endocrinologist from the suggestions that others have made on here.

[bbberrypatch]

I have been on prozac for 6 weeks and folks are starting to say, "have you lost weight".  The doctor didn't feel like gall bladder was involved and I did have food poisoning when I went to ER that time just took the right dr to let me know.  The diagnosis as of now is weight gain due to stress and age related.  I am staying on top of it and will post if anything happens differently.  Still have a prego looking gut but am walking so xxx(fingers crossed).

[Shanni324]

I am 22 years old and have always been active.  If I didn't watch what I ate or hadn't exercised and put on a few pounds, I have always been able to quickly lose it without much effort.  I have always had a flat stomach.  That is why when I gained 13lbs within 4-6 weeks I began to panic.  As soon as I put on a few pounds I did my normal increased activity and decreased cal intake to lose it but instead gained more.  Now for the past few weeks I have been doing extreme cardio 7 days a week MUCH more than I ever have in my life and I also have decreased my normal calorie intake by about 60% and will not budge.  I can not fit any of my clothes as my entire upper body is bloated including my breasts which are extremely sensative causing me to only feel comfortable wearing my padded bras now.  Even my under doesn't fit-I don't think I've gained weight in my a** but all of my underwear now will only cover half my a**!!! Weirder thing is although NOTHING fits undergarments and all, no one seems to think I appear to have gained much and I'm the only one who understands how frustrating this is.  I'm now depressed and crying everyday when I get dressed.  I thought I might find an answer online but now I REALLY feel depressed.  There has to be an answer...I will find it