Will hormone supplementation after adrenal tumor surgery lead to weight gain

Supplementing hormones after surgery for adrenal tumors may cause weight gain, but whether weight gain occurs depends on the type, dosage, and individual metabolic differences of hormones. Postoperative hormone supplementation for adrenal tumors mainly includes glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and other types. It is necessary to strictly follow the doctor's advice to adjust the medication plan. Surgery for adrenal tumors may affect the balance of hormone secretion in the body, and postoperative supplementation of exogenous hormones is often necessary to maintain physiological function. Corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone and prednisone may lead to central obesity by promoting fat redistribution, increasing appetite, and other pathways, manifested as facial roundness and abdominal fat accumulation. Salt corticosteroids such as fluhydrocortisone have little effect on body weight, but excessive use may cause water and sodium retention, resulting in temporary weight gain. Clinical data shows that short-term low-dose hormone replacement therapy has a lower probability of causing significant obesity, while long-term high-dose use carries relatively higher risks. Some patients may have metabolic disorders before surgery due to the primary disease, and postoperative hormone replacement may exacerbate insulin resistance and other issues. Regular monitoring of cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone levels after surgery can help doctors accurately adjust the dosage. Using a single morning dose or alternate day therapy can reduce side effects, and combining aerobic exercise with a low glycemic index diet can effectively control weight. The weight fluctuation is most significant within one year after surgery, and indicators such as body fat percentage and waist circumference need to be evaluated every three months. Patients with adrenal tumors after surgery should maintain a low salt, low sugar, and high protein diet, with a daily sodium intake controlled within 3 grams, and prioritize high-quality protein sources such as fish and chicken breast. Perform 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise such as brisk walking and swimming per week to avoid sudden interruptions in hormone therapy. If there is abnormal edema or an increase of more than 5% in body weight within one month, it is necessary to promptly review and adjust the medication plan. After 2 years of hormone stabilization after surgery, most patients can gradually recover to near preoperative weight status.

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