Metabolic Syndrome: A Cluster of Conditions
Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that occur together, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. These conditions include:
– High blood sugar levels (fasting glucose ≥ 100 mg/dL)
– High blood pressure (≥ 130/80 mm Hg)
– Excess body fat around the waist (waist circumference > 40 inches in men, > 35 inches in women)
– Abnormal cholesterol levels (HDL < 40 mg/dL in men, < 50 mg/dL in women)
– High triglyceride levels (≥ 150 mg/dL)
Causes and Risk Factors
Metabolic syndrome is closely linked to:
– Obesity and overweight
– Unhealthy eating habits
– Sedentary lifestyle
– Insulin resistance
Other risk factors include:
– Age ≥ 45 years
– Diabetes
– Fatty liver disease
– Breathing problems during sleep
– Polycystic ovarian syndrome
– Gallstones
– Stress
– Coronary heart disease
– Rheumatic diseases
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The primary symptom of metabolic syndrome is central obesity, also known as visceral obesity or apple-shaped adiposity. Your doctor may check for other symptoms, such as:
– High blood pressure
– High blood sugar levels
– Fatty liver disease
– Erectile dysfunction in men
Diagnosis involves:
– Blood tests for sugar levels and cholesterol and triglyceride levels
– Measurements of blood pressure and waist circumference
A diagnosis of metabolic syndrome is made if three or more of the following conditions are present:
– Waist circumference > 40 inches in men, > 35 inches in women
– Blood pressure ≥ 130/80 mm Hg
– Triglyceride levels ≥ 150 mg/dL
– Fasting blood sugar levels ≥ 100 mg/dL
– HDL levels < 40 mg/dL in men, < 50 mg/dL in women
Treatment and Lifestyle Changes
Treatment for metabolic syndrome involves:
– Medications for lowering cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels
– Heart-healthy lifestyle changes, such as:
– Healthy eating habits
– Maintaining a healthy weight
– Managing stress
– Moderate physical activity
– Quitting smoking and minimizing alcohol consumption
Complications
If left untreated, metabolic syndrome can lead to:
– Damage to the lining of coronary arteries and other arteries
– Kidney damage and decreased functioning ability
– Increased risk of cardiovascular disease
– Increased risk of blood clots
– Decreased insulin production
– Fatty liver disease and liver failure
Conclusion
Metabolic syndrome is a lifelong condition that requires permanent lifestyle changes. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and managing the underlying conditions, you can reduce the risk of complications and improve your overall health.
References:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/metabolic-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20351916
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/metabolic-syndrome/about-metabolic-syndrome
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/metabolic-syndrome
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10783-metabolic-syndrome
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metabolic_syndrome