Hypermetabolism

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Hypermetabolism is a medical condition characterized by an abnormally increased metabolism. It is often associated with conditions such as cancer, burns, sepsis, and certain endocrine disorders.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Hypermetabolism can be caused by various conditions and diseases. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Cancer: Certain types of cancer can cause the body to burn more calories, leading to hypermetabolism.
  • Burns: Severe burns can increase the body's metabolic rate as it works to heal the damaged tissue.
  • Sepsis: This severe infection can cause the body to increase its metabolic rate in an attempt to fight off the infection.
  • Endocrine disorders: Conditions such as hyperthyroidism can cause the body to produce too much thyroid hormone, which can increase the metabolic rate.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of hypermetabolism can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, common symptoms can include:

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of hypermetabolism typically involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Additional tests may be ordered to determine the underlying cause, such as blood tests to check for endocrine disorders or imaging tests to check for cancer.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for hypermetabolism typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may involve medication to manage endocrine disorders, treatment for infections, or therapies to manage cancer.

See also[edit | edit source]

Hypermetabolism Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD