Wellness . Symptoms guide
Unexplained Weight Gain: Hormone and Metabolic Testing
Persistent unexplained weight gain (more than 5 percent body weight over 3 to 6 months) without diet or activity change deserves a metabolic and hormonal review. Thyroid dysfunction, insulin resistance, PCOS in women and falling testosterone in men are the most common medical drivers. Bloodwork is the fastest way to identify them.
This patient information is being clinically reviewed by our team. The factual content draws on UK guidance (NHS, NICE, British Association of Dermatologists, British Society for Sexual Medicine where cited).
What this might be
- Hypothyroidism. Slows metabolism; often the first thing to test.
- Insulin resistance and pre-diabetes. HbA1c is the most useful single marker.
- PCOS (in women). Driven by insulin resistance and raised androgens.
- Cushing syndrome (rare). Excess cortisol; specific testing required if suspected.
- Medication effects. Antidepressants, antipsychotics, steroids, beta blockers.
Common features that suggest this
- Weight gain over 5 percent body weight in 6 months
- No change in diet or activity to explain it
- Concurrent fatigue or cold intolerance
- Hair changes or skin changes
Recommended tests
Same-day appointments at our Harley Street clinic, results clinician-reviewed.
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Testing advice
Fasting is recommended for the General Wellness panel (glucose, HbA1c, cholesterol). Morning slot helpful if hormones included.
Common questions
Will testing diagnose the cause?
It usually identifies whether a treatable hormonal or metabolic driver is present. If results are normal, lifestyle, sleep and mental health factors are the next focus.