What should you know about overweight and obesity?

Body size is influenced by genetics, sleep, medicines, stress, food access, activity and medical conditions. A clinician may consider your waist, medical history, medicines and physical examination alongside weight, rather than treating a single measurement as your whole health picture.

Excess body fat can place strain on joints and breathing and may be associated with high blood pressure, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, acid reflux, gallstones, gout and obstructive sleep apnoea. These links do not mean that every person with a larger body will develop them.

Arrange a routine appointment if weight is changing, daily activity is harder, or you want help choosing a safe approach. Keep a short record of meals, drinks, sleep, movement, medicines and symptoms to discuss.

Aim for practical habits: regular meals, more fibre-rich foods, water instead of sugary drinks, enjoyable movement, and a consistent sleep routine. Avoid crash diets. A clinician can discuss nutrition support, behavioural help, medicines or other options when appropriate.

Seek prompt medical advice for new breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, sudden swelling, severe abdominal pain, or marked thirst with frequent urination. Ask for an appointment if loud snoring, witnessed pauses in breathing, morning headaches or daytime sleepiness are affecting you.

Could a medicine or health condition be affecting my weight? Which checks are useful for my blood pressure, blood sugar and sleep? What first goal is realistic for my health? Which support options suit my circumstances?