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Obesity

The Basics | Symptoms | Detection & Treatment

How Do I Know If I'm Obese?

Your family doctor can usually tell you whether your weight is a health problem and can offer suggestions for treatment. However, some doctors are better prepared to treat obesity than others.

Your doctor may refer you to other health professionals: an endocrinologist, to determine if your obesity is due to a hormone problem like an underactive thyroid gland; a registered dietitian, to help you determine how many calories you need and how best to get them; or an exercise specialist, to help you develop a safe and effective exercise program.

If it appears that part of the reason for your obesity is an emotional problem -- possibly caused by depression, anxiety, sexual or physical abuse, family problems or drug or alcohol use -- your doctor may suggest you see a counselor or psychiatrist.

Medically updated by Cynthia Haines, MD , WebMD, August 2005.

SOURCES: WebMD Medical Reference provided in collaboration with The Cleveland Clinic: "Weight Loss: Body Mass Index (BMI." The Centers for Disease Control. The American Obesity Association

The Basics | Symptoms | Detection & Treatment
© 2005 WebMD Inc. All rights reserved.
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