Health

Check-up metabolic syndrome

My GP suspects I may have metabolic syndrome which he also called syndrome X. But I feel fine and have no symptoms

MARION KERR
Tue Mar 8 2011 - 00:00

My GP suspects I may have metabolic syndrome which he also called syndrome X. But I feel fine and have no symptoms. Can you tell me what this is?

Metabolic syndrome, which may also be called syndrome X or insulin resistance, is characterised by a combination of excess abdominal fat, resistance to the effects of insulin (insulin resistance), abnormal levels of fats in the blood, and high blood pressure. Metabolic syndrome is more likely to develop in people who retain excess fat around the abdomen (apple-shaped) rather than around the hips (pear-shaped). It can affect men and women, particularly women after menopause. Metabolic syndrome itself causes no symptoms.

He says I have a bit too much of a belly. But sure a bit of a tummy never killed any one.

Excess fat around the abdomen increases the risk of developing a range of illnesses including coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, abnormal levels of fats (lipids), including cholesterol, in the blood. It may also promote the development of other conditions such as fatty liver, gout and chronic kidney disease.

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Are there any tests I can have done to see if I have metabolic syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome is diagnosed when three of the following factors are present:

An increased waist circumference (=102cm in men and =88cm in women; =90cm in Asian men and =80cm in Asian women), indicating central obesity; Elevated triglycerides (=1.7mmol/L); Decreased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (130/85mmHg or active treatment for hypertension; Fasting plasma glucose level >5.6mmol/L or active treatment for hyperglycaemia.

Can it be treated?

The primary goal of treatment is to reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Your doctor will recommend lifestyle changes or medicines to help reduce your blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, and blood sugar. Recommendations may include losing weight; increasing exercise to 30 minutes of moderate intensity such as walking on five-seven days per week.

You will be encouraged to lower your cholesterol using weight loss and exercise. You may, however, need to use cholesterol-lowering medications as well. Blood pressure may also be reduced using weight loss, exercise and medications, if needed. Some people may need daily low-dose aspirin and smokers will be advised to quit.