What is Metabolic Syndrome?

There is quite the buzz about the American epidemic of obesity and the risk of heart disease that follows. With 1 out of 3 Americans with obesity, the crisis is real and the need for intervention great. Metabolic Syndrome is group of conditions that, when present, cause increase of heart disease, stroke, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and other deadly diseases. It is crucial to identify if you have this condition to prevent these chronic diseases and work towards health improvement.

Do I have Metabolic Syndrome?

In order to establish a diagnosis, you must meet with a medical provider who can perform labs, assess vital signs, and take body measurements.

To have the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome 3 out of the 5 conditions must be present. However, keep in mind having any ONE of these conditions puts your health at risk and needs to be addressed by your health care provider.

  1. Fasting Glucose ≥100 (or receiving medication for elevated blood sugar)
  2. Blood Pressure ≥130/85 (or receiving medication for high blood pressure)
  3. Triglycerides ≥150 (or receiving medication for elevated triglycerides)
  4. HDL <40 for men or HDL <50 for women (HDL is part of the cholesterol panel) Waist circumference >40in for men or waist circumference >35in for women

**The list above does not address all characteristics for heart disease, diabetes and stroke risk.

Other signs for potential Metabolic Syndrome concern:

Your body may show physical features of metabolic syndrome or other metabolic problems. It is critical to identify your risks and speak with a health care professional.

Other physical features:

  • Acanthosis nigricans- patches of skin darkening
  • Hirtuism- abnormal hair growth, ie: chin hair in women
  • Xanthomas- fatty growths underneath the skin
  • Peripheral neuropathy- numbness and tingling of fingers and toes, feeling cold often, etc
  • Chest Pain and/or Shortness of Breath **if present, seek medical attention ASAP

How Weight Loss can help:

With the joint care from your primary care physician, Options Medical Weight Loss can help identify if you have Metabolic Syndrome. We perform labs, check vital signs, and take measurements to screen for risk. If you identify with Metabolic Syndrome, lifestyle intervention is crucial. Weight loss and approved exercise is the best and safest way to reverse your diagnosis. At times medications are required in conjunction with lifestyle modification to achieve optimal health.

It is the passion of Options Medical Weight Loss team to better your health and help you become the best version of YOU! Quality of life matters to us. Upon request we can screen you for Metabolic Syndrome and start your recovery towards optimal health!

By Amelia Falat PA-C

Picture: http://www.fortmyerschirostudio.com/2016/02/18/a-vicious-cycle-the-trappings-of-metabolic-syndrome/