Unexplained Weight Gain
Type: Symptom
Definition
An involuntary increase in body mass occurring without any changes in caloric intake or physical activity.
Clinical Details
The severe deficit of circulating thyroid hormones significantly decelerates the body's resting metabolic rate, meaning fewer calories are burned at rest. The body begins to excessively store these unused calories as stubborn adipose tissue. Additionally, patients develop myxedema, a condition where complex sugars accumulate in the tissues and trap vast amounts of water.