Heredity - Obesity runs in families. Endocrine factors - certain harmonal diseases may cause increase in body weight. Drugs - steroids, oral contraceptives, insulin and certain drugs used in mental disturbances. Patient's appearance is sufficient to arrive at a diagnosis in most cases. Obesity must be distinguished from gain in weight due to fluid retention associated with cardiac, renal and hepatic diseases.
Diagnosis is apparent from patient's appearance.
Skin fold thickness over triceps muscles can be measured. Eat small frequent meals, eat breakfast. Increase physical activity. Appetite suppressing drugs - As recommended by the doctor results in greater weight loss than other measures. Surgery also may be an option.