<s>[INST] I have a molar tooth that will need to be extracted. It has decayed to where half the tooth is damaged/chipped. My question is I have gained a lot of weight even though I work out and track calories and have had lots of light headedness. Could these symptoms be connected with the tooth? [/INST] Hello, I can understand your concern. Tooth decay is never associated with weight changes and lightheadedness. Tooth decay can be associated with food impaction in the tooth, sensitivity to hot and cold food, pain during chewing, at night or all the time and referred pain can be felt in ear or temple. Other than these, other symptoms are not associated with the decayed tooth and should be checked by a physician for other diagnosis related to hormonal system and blood pressure. I would recommend consulting a physician before tooth extraction as lightheadedness due to blood pressure changes can cause complications during extraction and hormonal issues such as thyroid and diabetes should also be cleared or kept under control with medications, if present, before extraction. If the tooth causes pain by the time other issues are solved, you can take Ibuprofen 400 mg or Motorola 10 mg up to thrice a day for pain relief. Do not do heat compressions or hot/warm water gargles. I hope this information helps you. Thank you for choosing Chat Doctor. I wish you feel better soon. Best, </s>