13. Rapid Weight Gain – A Sign of Heart Disease?
Rapid weight gain with no apparent cause can be a symptom of heart disease. This weight gain can occur when your heart is unable to pump blood efficiently, causing fluid to build up in your body, a condition known as edema. This fluid accumulation can manifest as sudden weight gain.
Weight gain associated with heart disease is not like typical weight gain caused by excessive caloric intake or lack of exercise. It often occurs rapidly, over a few days or weeks, and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet, or shortness of breath. You might notice that your clothes or shoes feel tighter than usual or see visible swelling, especially in your lower body.
Edema is commonly seen in the lower parts of the body, such as the legs, ankles, and feet, due to the effects of gravity. However, in some cases, fluid can build up in your abdomen, leading to bloating and increased waist circumference. This condition, known as ascites, can occur in advanced stages of heart disease.
If you notice a sudden or unexplained weight gain, especially if it is associated with swelling or bloating and other symptoms on this list, it could indicate heart disease and warrant a medical consultation. (13)
