Metabolic syndrome is a medical condition that carries many names. It is sometimes referred to as syndrome x, insulin resistance syndrome and obesity syndrome, just to name a few. Diagnosing metabolic syndrome can be tricky, but early detection increases the chances of treating it effectively. There are certain signs to be aware of when it comes to diagnosing metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a condition that occurs when a group of risk factors present themselves in a person’s body. When a person develops metabolic syndrome, they have an increased risk of developing cardiovascular problems and diabetes.
There are a few guidelines that medical professionals consider when diagnosing metabolic syndrome. A large waistline is one of the biggest signs that a person may have metabolic syndrome. This happens when excess fat builds up in a person’s mid-section, causing them to take on an “apple shape.” Excess belly fat presents a larger risk for heart disease than fat accumulating on other areas of the body, such as the thighs. According to information presented by ShareCare, obesity in women is prevalent when the waistline is above 35 inches. A man is considered obese when his waistline exceeds 40 inches. The next thing to look for when it comes to diagnosing metabolic syndrome is a high triglyceride level. Triglycerides are a type of fat that is found in the blood. On the contrary, low HDL cholesterol (or “good” cholesterol) is another risk factor. HDL’s most important function is to remove bad cholesterol from the arteries. High blood pressure and high blood sugar are other things to consider for diagnosing metabolic syndrome.
So, how is metabolic syndrome diagnosed? Different doctors may have different criteria for diagnosing metabolic syndrome. However, the Cleveland Clinic and the American Heart Association agree that a person has metabolic syndrome if they demonstrate three or more of the risk factors. Some doctors have specific triglyceride, HDL, and blood pressure levels that they use as guidelines for diagnosing metabolic syndrome. Once a person is diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, they should begin addressing the issue immediately. Taking immediate action can be the difference between life and death in a patient with this health issue.
Metabolic syndrome is treated by addressing the underlying issues that cause it. Losing weight is one of the most important things a person can do to begin improving the side effects of metabolic syndrome. Weight loss will help to lower a person’s blood pressure, bring their triglyceride levels down, improve the metabolism of blood glucose and increase HDL cholesterol levels. Getting regular exercise will not only help to bring about weight loss, but it will help to improve these other issues as well. Changing eating habits is another way to bring about the reversal of metabolic syndrome.
