Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions, which occur together, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Such cluster may include: increased blood pressure, a high blood sugar level, excess body fat around the waist and abnormal cholesterol levels. Having just one of these conditions does not mean that the person suffers from Metabolic syndrome. However, if more than one of these conditions occur in combination, the risk is even greater. If a person has a Metabolic syndrome or any of the components of Metabolic syndrome, aggressive lifestyle changes can delay or even prevent the development of serious health problems.
Symptoms
Most of the disorders associated with Metabolic syndrome have no symptoms, although a large waist circumference is a visible sign. If the blood sugar is very high, the person might experience signs and symptoms of diabetes, including increased thirst and urination, fatigue and blurred vision.
Causes
Metabolic syndrome is primarily caused by obesity and inactivity. In connection to that, it is linked to a condition called insulin resistance. Normally, the digestive system breaks down the foods into glucose. Insulin is a hormone that helps sugar enter the cells to be used as fuel. In people with insulin resistance, the cells do not respond normally to insulin and glucose cannot enter the cells as easily. As a result, glucose levels in the blood rise despite the body's attempt to control the glucose by churning out more and more insulin. This can eventually lead to diabetes when the body is unable to make enough insulin to keep the blood glucose within the normal range.
Risk Factors
The following factors increase the chances of having Metabolic syndrome:
- The age group of over the age of 60;
- Hispanics and Asians;
- Obese people;
- People suffering from diabetes
- Other diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease or polycystic ovary syndrome.
Complications
Having Metabolic syndrome can increase the risk of developing diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
Prevention
Various strategies have been proposed to prevent the development of Metabolic syndrome. These include increased physical activity and a healthy, reduced calorie diet.
