Many viewers find "Heavy" one of the more frustrating episodes of the first season due to the unlikable behavior of the doctors toward a child. Critics point out that despite the patient’s regular exercise and healthy diet, the team remains stubbornly convinced her weight is her fault until the final moments.

: Most of the team assumes her heart condition is a direct consequence of her morbid obesity.

The episode’s title also refers to the "heavy" pressure applied by pharmaceutical tycoon Edward Vogler, who demands House fire one of his three fellows to satisfy a profit-driven agenda.