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10 pound weight gain this weeek.

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭

Only taking hydroxychloroquine for Lupus since November. I had a horrible uti and took Macrobid for 10 days and just finished yesterday. A flair began this morning consisting of plantar fasciitis symptoms and Achilles tendonopathy along with major body aches and pain. Today, I the scale shows a 10 pound gain in weight from 162 to 172. I am 5’9 and 57 yr old post menopause female.

Any and all ideas appreciated.

March 15
 · 
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A MyLupusTeam Member

Were you given steroids for this flare, Jill? That can cause weight gain and fluid retention, which is the most likely cause. If you have ankle swelling or difficulty breathing, too, that's concerning for a possible cardiac issue, which can lead to fluid retention. Please see your doctor about this and keep us posted.

March 16
MyLupusTeam

What could be causing this sudden 10-pound weight gain?

A 10-pound weight gain in one week is likely due to fluid retention rather than actual fat gain, especially since you're experiencing a lupus flare. Here are the most probable causes:

Fluid Retention from Lupus Flare

During a flare, inflammation can cause your body to Show Full Answer

What could be causing this sudden 10-pound weight gain?

A 10-pound weight gain in one week is likely due to fluid retention rather than actual fat gain, especially since you're experiencing a lupus flare. Here are the most probable causes:

Fluid Retention from Lupus Flare

During a flare, inflammation can cause your body to retain water, leading to rapid weight gain. The body aches, pain, and tendon issues you're experiencing are all signs of active inflammation.

Kidney Involvement

About 50 percent of people with lupus develop lupus nephritis (kidney inflammation). When kidneys aren't working properly, fluid can build up quickly and increase body weight. This is especially important to monitor during a flare.

Hydroxychloroquine and Weight

Good news here - hydroxychloroquine itself is not associated with weight gain as a side effect. It's unlikely to be the cause of your sudden weight increase.

What You Should Do

Contact your rheumatologist right away about:
- The sudden 10-pound weight gain
- Your current flare symptoms
- Possible kidney involvement

They may want to check your kidney function and adjust your treatment. Managing salt and water intake, as advised by your healthcare team, can help with fluid retention.

The combination of rapid weight gain and a flare warrants prompt medical attention to rule out kidney issues and get your symptoms under control.

March 15

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