Metabolic Disorders

Around 1 in 3 Americans have metabolic syndrome — a group of health problems that can lead to heart attack, stroke, and long-term poor health. The team of professionals at CHAP Med in Sherman Oaks, California, have an in-depth understanding of metabolic syndrome and its treatment. They can also help you avoid this disorder and its complications. Call CHAP Med or schedule a consultation online today for expert metabolic syndrome diagnosis and treatment.

What is metabolic syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome consists of conditions that increase your risk of life-threatening disorders like cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and stroke. It can also cause organ damage.

If you receive a metabolic syndrome diagnosis, you should view it as a warning to change unhealthy habits and reduce risks. The CHAP Med team specializes in supporting people affected by metabolic syndrome.

Which conditions does metabolic syndrome include?

Conditions included in metabolic syndrome are:

Excess abdominal weight

Waist measurements exceeding 40 inches in men and 35 inches in women indicate excessive fat on the abdomen.

Hypertriglyceridemia

Triglyceride (fat) levels exceeding 150 milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dL).

Low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol

HDL cholesterol below 40 mg/dL in men and 50 mg/dL in women.

Elevated blood sugar

Fasting blood sugar exceeding 100 mg/dL. People with Type 2 diabetes have blood sugar levels over 125 mg/dL.

High blood pressure (hypertension)

Healthy blood pressure measures around 120 systolic (as your heart beats) and 80 diastolic (between heartbeats). Systolic blood pressure consistently measuring 130 or higher and/or diastolic of 85 or higher puts you in the metabolic syndrome range.

Any one of these conditions can increase your risk of severe, long-term illness. But if you have three or more (the diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome), your risk becomes considerably greater.

What symptoms does metabolic syndrome cause?

Metabolic syndrome often causes no significant symptoms. For example, you might have no idea your blood pressure is dangerously high until you experience a crisis like a heart attack.

The best way to ensure that you stay aware of changes that lead to metabolic syndrome is by undergoing an annual physical or regular wellness check at CHAP Med. Simple blood pressure readings and lab tests will identify areas of concern before they become severe.

How is metabolic syndrome treated?

The primary treatment for metabolic syndrome is leading a healthy lifestyle. After completing a thorough assessment, the CHAP Med team designs a personalized treatment plan for you to address unhealthy habits like:

• Smoking
• Overeating
• Poor dietary choices
• Not exercising
• Drinking alcohol excessively
• Irregular sleep
• Unmanaged stress

Your doctor provides advice and support to help you lose weight, become more active, sleep better, and reduce stress. You might benefit from medications like appetite suppressants and blood pressure pills.

Call CHAP Med or book an appointment online today to see if you need help with metabolic syndrome.