Symptoms of obesity

Obesity itself is a rise in body fat, and some people feel well for years. But the extra weight can bring signs and symptoms.

Body signs

• Weight above the healthy range for height and age
• Larger waist, with fat around the belly
• Fat deposits on the neck and upper back
• Stretch marks and skin folds that stay moist
• Darkening of the skin at the neck and armpits (acanthosis nigricans), which can signal insulin resistance

Symptoms you may notice

• Breathlessness on climbing stairs or walking
• Loud snoring and daytime sleepiness
• Joint and back pain, especially in knees and hips
• Heavy sweating and heat intolerance
• Tiredness and low energy
• Heartburn
• Low mood or low self-esteem

Signs of related conditions

• Excessive thirst and urination (diabetes)
• Headaches or high blood pressure
• Irregular periods and hair growth in women (PCOS)
• Fatty liver, often with no symptoms

In children

Weight rising faster than height, trouble keeping up with friends in play, snoring, early puberty, or teasing about weight.

See a doctor if you have these signs, or a steady gain without a clear reason.

Emergency (112 or 102): chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, or one-sided weakness.

Remember

Many people have no symptoms early. A check of waist, blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol finds risks early.

When to get help

See a doctor if you are gaining weight steadily, have a large waist or have symptoms such as breathlessness, snoring, joint pain or excessive thirst. Avoid crash diets, slimming teas and fat-burner products, and do not give herbs, supplements or weight-loss plans to children or teens without a paediatrician's advice. In an emergency call 112 or 102.