A doctor has warned of five red flag signs that you are secretly suffering from a deadly condition that can lead to several life-threatening illnesses. Bariatric surgeon Doctor Maksims Mukans urged people to seek medical help if they spot any symptoms of metabolic syndrome.
Metabolic syndrome is the name for a cluster of conditions that together elevate the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Early detection and lifestyle changes are “crucial” in managing this syndrome, according to Dr Mukans, from Weight Loss Riga.
However, it can be hard to detect, and the NHS warned that many people might not display symptoms.
With this in mind, Dr Mukans outlined five signs that you may have metabolic syndrome, and what to do about it.
Increased waist circumference
One of the most telling signs of metabolic syndrome is an increased waist circumference.
For men, a waist measurement of 40 inches or more, and for women, 35 inches or more, is a red flag.
Dr Mukans explained: “Excess abdominal fat is a significant indicator because it is closely linked to insulin resistance, a key factor in metabolic syndrome. Monitoring your waist size can be a simple yet effective way to assess your risk.”
High blood pressure
Persistent high blood pressure is another indicator of metabolic syndrome. Blood pressure readings consistently above 130/85 mmHg could signal an issue.
“High blood pressure puts extra strain on your heart and blood vessels, leading to more serious cardiovascular problems if left unchecked,” Dr Mukans said.
Regular monitoring and early intervention are vital in managing this condition.
Elevated blood sugar levels
Elevated fasting blood sugar levels, specifically 100 mg/dL or higher, are a warning sign.
This indicates that your body is having trouble regulating glucose, which can lead to diabetes.
“Keeping an eye on your blood sugar levels, especially if you have a family history of diabetes, is crucial. Early detection can prevent the progression to type 2 diabetes,” Dr Mukans advised.
Abnormal cholesterol levels
Metabolic syndrome is often marked by higher levels of triglycerides (150 mg/dL or more) and lower levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (less than 40 mg/dL in men and less than 50 mg/dL in women).
According to Dr Mukans, cholesterol levels are a “direct indicator of how your body is processing fats”. He said: “Abnormal levels can significantly increase your risk of deadly cardiovascular diseases.”
Fatigue and low energy
While fatigue can have many causes, chronic low energy levels can be a sign of metabolic syndrome.
Dr Mukans said: “When your body is struggling to regulate blood sugar and blood pressure, it often results in persistent tiredness. If you feel fatigued despite getting adequate rest, it’s worth discussing this with your doctor.”
Potential health risks
Metabolic syndrome significantly increases your risk of serious health problems.
“Without intervention, metabolic syndrome can lead to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke, Dr Mukans said. “These conditions can be life-threatening and drastically impact your quality of life.”
To lower your risk of the syndrome he recommended the following lifestyle changes:
- Diet – Dr Mukans recommended a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
- Exercise – He advised 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week
- Weight management – Losing even a small amount of weight can reduce your risk
- Regular monitoring – Keep track of your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels.
