Metabolic syndrome X

Metabolic syndrome X

Metabolic syndrome X, also known as metabolic syndrome, syndrome X, or insulin resistance syndrome, is a cluster of conditions that occur together, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. These conditions include increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels.

Signs and Symptoms

Individuals with metabolic syndrome X may exhibit the following signs and symptoms:

• Abdominal obesity: Excess fat in the abdominal area.
• Hypertension: Elevated blood pressure.
• Hyperglycemia: High blood sugar levels.
• Dyslipidemia: Abnormal levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of metabolic syndrome X is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to its development:

• Insulin resistance: The body's cells do not respond properly to insulin.
• Obesity: Particularly central obesity.
• Physical inactivity: Lack of regular physical activity.
• Genetics: Family history of metabolic syndrome or related conditions.
• Age: Risk increases with age.

Diagnosis

Metabolic syndrome X is diagnosed based on the presence of at least three of the following criteria:

• Waist circumference: Greater than 40 inches in men and 35 inches in women.
• Triglycerides: Levels of 150 mg/dL or higher.
• HDL cholesterol: Less than 40 mg/dL in men and 50 mg/dL in women.
• Blood pressure: 130/85 mmHg or higher.
• Fasting glucose: 100 mg/dL or higher.

Treatment

Treatment for metabolic syndrome X focuses on addressing the individual components of the syndrome:

• Lifestyle changes: Including diet and exercise.
• Medications: To control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
• Weight loss: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Maintaining a healthy diet.
• Regular physical activity.
• Monitoring and managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Related Pages

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Type 2 diabetes
• Insulin resistance
• Obesity
• Hypertension
• Hyperglycemia
• Dyslipidemia