Overweight and Obesity: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Overweight and Obesity?
A primary care doctor usually treats overweight and obesity first. Some patients see a bariatric physician, a doctor with special training in weight and metabolism. If surgery is considered, a bariatric surgeon may join the team. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is overweight and obesity?
Overweight and obesity mean having more body fat than is healthy for a person's height. Doctors usually measure this with body mass index, or BMI. Extra body fat raises the chance of many health problems, but it can be managed.
Doctors use BMI to sort weight into groups. For most adults, a BMI of 25 to 29.9 is overweight, and a BMI of 30 or higher is obesity. BMI is a simple screening tool, not a perfect measure.
Symptoms
Extra weight may not cause clear symptoms at first. Physical activity can become harder, and some people feel short of breath or have joint pain, trouble sleeping, or low energy. Obesity also raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and sleep apnea.
Causes and who gets it
Obesity happens when a person takes in more calories than the body burns over time. Eating habits, low activity, poor sleep, some medicines, stress, and genes all play a role. An underactive thyroid can also lead to weight gain.
How doctors diagnose it
A doctor will measure your height, weight, and waist to figure out your BMI and health risks. They may order blood tests to check blood sugar, cholesterol, and thyroid function.
Treatment
Treatment usually starts with changes in eating and physical activity. Some people need medicine for weight management, and for some with severe obesity, weight loss surgery is an option. Many people improve their health even with modest weight loss.
When to see a doctor
Talk to a doctor if you have trouble managing your weight on your own, or if you have constant tiredness, joint pain, or loud snoring. Getting help early can prevent bigger problems.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance and can manage weight concerns directly, including check ins, diet and activity plans, blood tests, and weight management medicines. Concierge medicine works similarly but usually costs more. If a patient needs surgery or has complex problems, the doctor will refer them to a specialist and often stays involved to coordinate care.
Common questions
Is BMI always accurate?
No. BMI does not tell the difference between fat and muscle. Very muscular people may look overweight by the number. Doctors also use waist size, health history, and exams to get the full picture.
Can obesity be cured?
Obesity is a long term condition, and there is no quick cure. Many people improve their health with steady changes in eating, activity, and sometimes medicine or surgery. Results differ from person to person.
Do I need surgery?
Most people do not need surgery. Weight loss surgery is usually considered only for people with severe obesity or related health problems. These problems have not improved with other treatment. A doctor can explain whether it might make sense for you.
Are weight loss medicines safe?
Some prescription medicines can help with weight management, and they must be prescribed by a doctor. Each medicine has possible side effects, so a doctor will review your health history first. Never take weight loss drugs bought without a prescription.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
