Metabolic syndrome isn’t just a medical term; it’s a collection of conditions that often occur together, increasing your risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Think of it as a group of uninvited guests wreaking havoc on your health.
It includes:
- High Blood Sugar: Your body might struggle to use sugar (glucose) efficiently, leaving you feeling tired.
- High Blood Pressure: Your blood pressure is consistently above normal levels.
- Extra Belly Fat: Carrying excess weight around your waist can be a significant risk factor.
- Abnormal Cholesterol: Elevated levels of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) or low levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL).
- High Triglycerides: Elevated levels of fats in your blood.
Here's the Thing:
Having just one of these factors doesn’t mean you have metabolic syndrome. However, the presence of multiple factors increases your risk of serious health complications.
How is Metabolic Syndrome Diagnosed?
The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) defines metabolic syndrome as the presence of three or more of the following five criteria:
- Abdominal Obesity: Waist circumference ≥102 cm (40 inches) in men and ≥88 cm (35 inches) in women.
- Triglycerides: Levels ≥150 mg/dL (1.7 mmol/L) or drug treatment for elevated triglycerides.
- HDL Cholesterol: Levels <40 mg/dL (1.0 mmol/L) in men and <50 mg/dL (1.3 mmol/L) in women or drug treatment for low HDL cholesterol.
- Blood Pressure: Systolic BP ≥130 mm Hg or diastolic BP ≥85 mm Hg or treatment of previously diagnosed hypertension.
- Fasting Glucose: Levels ≥100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L) or drug treatment for elevated glucose.
What Causes Metabolic Syndrome?
The exact cause of metabolic syndrome is unknown, but it likely involves a combination of factors, including:
- Genetics: Family history of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease can increase your risk.
- Obesity: Particularly abdominal obesity is a major risk factor.
- Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to the development of metabolic syndrome.
- Age: Risk increases as you get older.
- Race: Certain ethnic backgrounds, such as South Asians, are at higher risk.
What are the Complications of Metabolic Syndrome?
Metabolic syndrome can significantly increase your risk of developing several health problems, including:
- Cardiovascular Disease: Due to a combination of factors like high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and inflammation.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Because of insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels.
- Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Often associated with insulin resistance and obesity
Managing Metabolic Syndrome with Well Endocrinology
At Well Endocrinology, we stand out for:
- Board-certified Expertise: Dr. Sobia Sadiq is a leading expert in women’s health and hormone management. She brings extensive experience and knowledge to ensure you receive the most advanced and effective care.
- Telehealth Convenience: Experience exceptional care from the comfort and privacy of your own home through secure telehealth consultations.
- Ongoing Support and Communication: We are readily available to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide ongoing support through various communication channels.
- Focus on Long-Term Health: We take a holistic approach, addressing underlying hormonal imbalances and promoting overall well-being through lifestyle counseling and preventive measures.