Obesity and Being Overweight: causes, symptoms, and how we can help

Living with obesity or being overweight can affect both physical and emotional wellbeing. Learn more about the causes, symptoms and treatment options available, and how our weight management service can help support sustainable weight loss.

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What is obesity?

Many people struggle with their weight at some point in their lives. In fact, according to the latest Health Survey for England, around 66% of adults are overweight or living with obesity.

For many people, excess weight can have a significant impact on their health, confidence, energy levels and quality of life.

Obesity is recognised as a complex, long-term health condition. While diet and exercise play an important role, factors such as genetics, hormones, sleep, stress, medical conditions and the environment around us can all influence body weight.

Healthcare professionals often use Body Mass Index (BMI) as one way to assess whether someone may be overweight or living with obesity. However, weight is only one part of the picture, and clinicians will also consider your overall health, medical history and individual circumstances.

The good news is that effective support is available. With the right combination of clinical guidance, lifestyle support and, where appropriate, medical treatment, many people are able to achieve meaningful and sustainable weight loss.

When should you seek support for your weight?

Many people spend years trying different diets, exercise plans or weight loss programmes without achieving the results they hoped for.

You may wish to seek support if:

You have been unable to lose weight despite making lifestyle changes
Your weight is affecting your confidence or mental wellbeing
You are experiencing weight-related health problems
You find yourself repeatedly losing and regaining weight
You would like support from healthcare professionals to help you achieve your goals

Seeking help is not a sign of failure. Obesity is a recognised medical condition, and support is available.

What are the symptoms of obesity and being overweight?

People living with obesity or excess weight may experience a range of physical, emotional and health-related symptoms.

Physical symptoms

Shortness of breath during activity
Reduced fitness or mobility
Joint, hip or back pain
Feeling tired or lacking energy
Increased sweating
Difficulty sleeping or poor-quality sleep

Emotional symptoms

Reduced confidence or self-esteem
Anxiety about weight or appearance
Avoiding social situations
Emotional eating
Frustration after repeated attempts to lose weight

Health-related complications

Living with obesity may increase the risk of:

Type 2 diabetes
High blood pressure
Heart disease
Stroke
Sleep apnoea
Fatty liver disease
Osteoarthritis
Certain types of cancer

What Causes Obesity?

Obesity is rarely caused by a single factor. Instead, it usually develops through a combination of influences that affect appetite, metabolism, behaviour and lifestyle.

Lifestyle factors

Consuming more calories than the body uses over time
Low levels of physical activity
Poor sleep habits
Stress and emotional factors

Biological factors

Genetics and family history
Hormonal changes
Age-related metabolic changes
Differences in appetite regulation

Environmental factors

Easy access to high-calorie foods
Sedentary working environments
Social and cultural influences
Limited opportunities for physical activity

Medical factors

Certain health conditions
Some prescription medications
Reduced mobility following illness or injury

How Is Obesity Treated?

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to weight management. The most effective treatment plans are tailored to the individual and focus on long-term behaviour change.

Lifestyle changes

Improving nutrition, increasing physical activity, improving sleep quality and managing stress can all play an important role in supporting weight loss.

Behavioural support

Many people benefit from structured coaching and accountability to help develop healthier habits and maintain motivation over time.

Prescription weight loss treatments

Clinically appropriate weight loss medications can help regulate appetite and support sustainable weight management when paired with lifestyle changes.

Long-term support

Research consistently shows that maintaining weight loss is often the greatest challenge. Ongoing support and sustainable habits are key to achieving lasting results.

How our Weight Management Service can help

If you're looking for additional support with your weight loss journey, our weight management service is designed to provide personalised, clinician-led care.

The process starts with a short online assessment, which is reviewed by a UK-registered clinician. Assessments submitted before 2pm are typically reviewed on the same working day.

If treatment is appropriate, your personalised care plan may include:

Clinician-led assessment and treatment recommendations
Access to prescription weight loss medication where clinically appropriate
A dedicated health coach
Weekly check-ins and ongoing support via WhatsApp
Guidance on nutrition, physical activity and behaviour change
Access to our patient community
Ongoing clinical reviews and medication management
Home delivery of treatment where appropriate

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Support Beyond Medication

One of the biggest challenges many people face is maintaining weight loss after treatment ends.

Eligible patients who have completed at least four months on the programme can access 12 months of post-treatment aftercare support, aligned with NICE recommendations. This includes weekly check-ins during the first three months and monthly support for a further nine months, helping patients build sustainable habits and maintain their results over the long term.