10 Symptoms of Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome isn’t a single disease; it’s a cluster of different conditions which usually require lab work and tests to confirm. The metabolic risk factors typically occur among people who are overweight or obese, including those who have type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Metabolic syndrome is also referred to as syndrome X and dysmetabolic syndrome. This article discusses the different symptoms of metabolic syndrome. Since it’s broader than a single disease, it may be more challenging to diagnose. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should consider going to the doctor to have yourself checked.

Abdominal Obesity

Abdominal obesity means that a person is not only obese, but the weight concentrates in the middle part of the body. Usually, the measurement of the waist circumference is as follows: 102 centimeters or more in men, 88 centimeters or more in women, 90 centimeters or more in Asian American men and 80 centimeters or more in Asian American women. The bigger the measurement of the circumference is, the higher is the likelihood of disease. It serves as a symptom of metabolic syndrome. If you notice you carry your weight in your midsection, you may want to be checked by your physician.

Resistance to Hormones

When you have resistance to a specific hormone, your body is unable to properly use it to process sugar, leading to high blood glucose levels. If this symptom is not checked or treated, it can eventually lead to prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. When you don’t have enough, the excess glucose builds up in your bloodstream. This problem can lead to more serious illnesses or disorders.

Irregularities in the Blood

Abnormalities in your blood aren’t readily noticeable. If you’re concerned, you should see a specialist to have a blood test to check for increased C-reactive protein; if you have increased levels of this protein in your blood, you may need to undergo further testing to determine if you have Metabolic Syndrome. High blood pressure – equal to or greater than 130/85 mmHg – can also impact your body and require management to prevent damage to your heart.

Other Diseases

Other diseases can be a symptom of Metabolic Syndrome. The likelihood of having it increases when you have: cardiovascular disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and polycystic ovary syndrome. When you already have these illnesses, it is best for you to have regular checkups to watch your health. Forgoing such checkups might lead you to develop a new disease. You can speak to your physician about the likelihood of getting this disorder based on your current diagnoses.

Atherogenic Dyslipidemia

This symptom can be a sign of many different conditions. When you have Atherogenic Dyslipidemia, it means you have elevated levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides and low levels of “good cholesterol” (HDL) in your blood. Your body needs balanced cholesterol and triglyceride levels to reduce the risk of heart disease and other issues. Since you can’t see this symptom physically, you should ask your doctor to check your cholesterol levels at your yearly physical to ensure that you’re not at risk.

Fatigue or Tiredness

Experiencing tiredness or fatigue can also be a symptom of Metabolic Syndrome. This notion is especially true if you experience this after you eat your meals. If you notice tiredness without a cause, like stress or too little sleep, you may want to consult a specialist to make sure your metabolic levels, hormones, and other factors that could impact your alertness are normal.

Metabolic Syndrome Can Cause Brain Fog

Aside from being tired, you may start experiencing what’s known as “brain fog.” This condition is when you are unable to focus on something properly. Even though there are no distractions around you, you may find yourself spacing out. If this happens to you while you’re performing a familiar task, and it’s never happened before, it could be a sign of an underlying problem that could be quite serious. If you rule out the common causes of brain fog, like fatigue and stress, and find that you still have episodes, you should speak to your doctor and get a professional opinion.

Acanthosis Nigricans

Another symptom would be Acanthosis Nigricans, which can start to turn the folds of your skin brown. The browning is visible on your neck, armpits or groin and between your butt cheeks. If you notice browning that doesn’t go away with a good shower, then you might want to speak to your doctor. Acanthosis Nigricans can be a symptom of Metabolic syndrome, though it’s uncommon. A doctor can help you identify the cause and take the necessary steps to treat the condition to stop it from spreading.

Irregular Sugar and Cholesterol Levels

Having high levels of triglycerides or a high blood glucose level is never a good thing. If your triglyceride level is equal to or higher than 150 mg/dL or your fasting glucose is equal to or higher than 100 mg/dL, you may have Metabolic syndrome. You should also check your cholesterol levels. If the levels of HDL cholesterol in your body are irregular – lower than 40 mg/dL for men and 50 mg/dL for women – it could be a sign of Metabolic syndrome. Even if it’s not, those cholesterol levels are concerning, and you should discuss them with your specialist.

Other Physical Changes

Aside from all these, you might start feeling and seeing other physical changes, which could be signs of several different illnesses, including Metabolic syndrome. You might feel thirst which comes with frequent urination, frequent feelings of fatigue and even blurred vision. When these symptoms come out of nowhere and with no apparent cause, it would be best to visit your physician and seek professional medical advice to get yourself well.