What are the Symptoms of Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of health conditions.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, metabolic syndrome is diagnosed when a person has three or more of the following risk factors:

• High blood pressure (130/85 mm Hg or higher) or taking blood pressure medications
• High triglyceride levels (150 mg/dL or higher) or taking medication for high triglycerides
• Low HDL cholesterol levels (less than 40 mg/dL for men or less than 50 mg/dL for women) or taking medication for low HDL cholesterol
• High fasting blood sugar levels (100 mg/dL or higher) or taking medication for high blood sugar
• Large waist circumference (greater than 35 inches for women and greater than 40 inches for men)

Metabolic syndrome is becoming increasingly common, affecting up to one-third of adults in the United States. It is often associated with obesity, physical inactivity, and insulin resistance.

What happens if I have Metabolic Syndrome?

The biggest concern is the increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Each condition alone can cause health problems. The issue is when they are combined. They pose a significant threat to an individual’s well-being.

What’s worse, the symptoms of metabolic syndrome can be subtle and may go unnoticed for years. Many people are suffering from metabolic syndrome and have no idea.

I was like that. My A1C Hemoglobin hit 13.4. I had no idea what was wrong.

That’s why I wanted to help people understand what are the symptoms of metabolic syndrome.

Moreover, I want you to see that early detection can help prevent serious health complications. In fact, in my case, I have been able to roll back all the complications. I control my blood sugar with my diet and exercise regimen.

What risk factors characterize Metabolic Syndrome?

Several risk factors preced metabolic syndrome. Among them are obesity, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and high blood sugars. Other factors that increase the risk of metabolic syndrome include age, ethnicity, family history, and physical inactivity.

We’ll get into all of those shortly.

In addition, some people with metabolic syndrome may have acanthosis nigricans. I have this in the crux of my left elbow. This skin condition causes dark, velvety patches in the folds and creases of the skin.

What is Metabolic Syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome refers to the body’s inability to handle excess blood sugar. Individuals with metabolic syndrome run more risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease presents a more acute risk. Heart attack and stroke are among the leading killers of adults in America.

They are also at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Diabetes tends to be more of a chronic condition. Naturally these conditions go hand in hand.

Overall, it is important for individuals with metabolic syndrome to work with their doctors. Your healthcare provider can help manage your condition. In doing so, you will reduce your risk of developing serious health problems.

Symptoms of Metabolic Syndrome

Let’s get into the specifics of symptoms for metabolic syndrome. If you are seeing more than three of these, you’ll want to read our action plan to reverse metabolic syndrome.

High Blood Sugar

High blood sugar is also known as hyperglycemia. This is the most common symptom of metabolic syndrome. Typically, cells in the body grow resistant to the effect of insulin. As a result, your pancreas cannot use the energy in glucose properly.

It’s all downhill from there. Blood sugar levels rise. That, in turn, leads to diabetes.

You may be unaware of changes to your blood glucose levels. The best way to confirm is with a simple reading from a glucometer. Some of the best options are made by OneTouch, but you can find a checker that best suits you.

Most people don’t pre-emptively check their blood sugar. So be on the look out for these symptoms of high blood sugar:

• increased thirst
• frequent urination
• fatigue
• blurred vision

I had all of these symptoms when I got my blood checked several years ago. That was what started me on this journey to overcome metabolic syndrome.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is another common symptom of metabolic syndrome. This is another risk factor that I have in my family history as well. When blood pressure is high, it can cause damage to the blood vessels. This in turn leads to increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

Often people with chronic high blood pressure are unaware of their condition. That’s why hypertension is considered a silent killer. Symptoms of high blood pressure may include headaches, dizziness, and nosebleeds.

High Cholesterol

High cholesterol levels are also a symptom of metabolic syndrome. When there is too much cholesterol in the blood, it can build up in the arteries, leading to plaque formation and increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Symptoms of high cholesterol may not be noticeable, but a blood test can detect high levels of LDL cholesterol, the “bad” cholesterol, and low levels of HDL cholesterol, the “good” cholesterol.

Large Waistline

A large waistline, also known as abdominal obesity, is a visible symptom of metabolic syndrome. When there is excess fat around the waistline, it can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. A waist circumference of 40 inches or more in men and 35 inches or more in women is considered a symptom of metabolic syndrome.

In conclusion, metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. The symptoms of metabolic syndrome can vary, but they usually include high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a large waistline. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and monitoring blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.

Risk Factors for Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that occur together, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Several risk factors can contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals make lifestyle changes and seek medical intervention to reduce their risk.

Age

Age is a significant risk factor for metabolic syndrome. As individuals age, their risk of developing metabolic syndrome increases. According to the Mayo Clinic, metabolic syndrome affects about 40% of people in their 60s and 70s.

Ethnicity

Certain ethnic groups are at a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome. For example, African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians are more likely to develop metabolic syndrome than Caucasians. Ethnicity can also influence the severity of metabolic syndrome and its associated health complications.

Family History

A family history of metabolic syndrome or related conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, can increase an individual’s risk of developing metabolic syndrome. If an individual has a family history of these conditions, they should be proactive in managing their health and reducing their risk.

Excess Weight

Excess weight, particularly in the abdominal area, is a significant risk factor for metabolic syndrome. Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher are considered obese and are at a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome. Losing weight through diet and exercise can reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome.

Inactivity

A sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of metabolic syndrome. Physical activity helps regulate blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome. Individuals should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

Smoking

Smoking is a significant risk factor for metabolic syndrome, as it can increase blood pressure, raise blood sugar levels, and contribute to insulin resistance. Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome and improve overall health.

Stress

Chronic stress can also contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome. Stress can increase blood pressure, raise blood sugar levels, and contribute to weight gain. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and other stress-reducing activities can help reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome.

In conclusion, understanding the risk factors for metabolic syndrome can help individuals take steps to reduce their risk and improve their overall health. By maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in physical activity, quitting smoking, and managing stress, individuals can reduce their risk of metabolic syndrome and associated health complications.

Complications of Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of developing serious health problems. These conditions include high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. If left untreated, metabolic syndrome can lead to several complications.

Heart Disease

One of the most significant complications of metabolic syndrome is heart disease. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels, leading to the buildup of plaque. Over time, this can lead to the narrowing or hardening of the arteries, which can cause chest pain, heart attack, or heart failure.

Stroke

Metabolic syndrome also increases the risk of stroke. The buildup of plaque in the arteries can cause a blood clot to form, which can block blood flow to the brain. This can lead to a stroke, which can cause permanent brain damage or even death.

Type 2 Diabetes

Another complication of metabolic syndrome is type 2 diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage the pancreas, which produces insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. Over time, this can lead to insulin resistance, where the body becomes less sensitive to insulin. This can cause high blood sugar levels, which can damage the nerves, kidneys, and eyes.

Fatty Liver

Metabolic syndrome can also cause a condition called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This is where excess fat builds up in the liver, which can cause inflammation and scarring. In severe cases, this can lead to liver failure or liver cancer.

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is another complication of metabolic syndrome. This is a condition where a person stops breathing for short periods during sleep. It is often caused by excess weight, which can put pressure on the airways. Sleep apnea can cause daytime fatigue, irritability, and an increased risk of accidents.

In conclusion, metabolic syndrome can lead to several serious complications, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver, and sleep apnea. It is essential to manage the risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome, such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and excess body fat, to prevent these complications.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. The diagnosis of metabolic syndrome is based on the presence of at least three of the following five risk factors: large waist circumference, high blood pressure, high fasting blood glucose, high triglyceride levels, and low HDL cholesterol levels.

Tests

Your doctor will run tests to confirm your condition. That starts with a physical exam. I urge your to share a comprehensive medical and family history. In my case, I had several relatives who had problems with sugars. That made it easier to understand my susceptibility to metabolic syndrome and diabetes.

From there, you will want to get blood tests to measure blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.

The American Heart Association recommends that adults check their cholesterol levels every four to six years, starting at age 20. Likewise, your doctor will want to check your fasting blood glucose levels regularly. Due to my history, I get bloodwork done annually.

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes are the first line of treatment for metabolic syndrome. Start by eating healthier. We have a lot of articles on diet that you may find useful. However, it’s often as simple as getting stricter with your calorie budget. Likewise, get active. Exercise more every day. You will improve your insulin sensitivity and improve your metabolism.

An often overlooked lifestyle change is to improve your sleep. Getting seven to nine hours of quality restful sleep will work wonders. Your body will heal with improved sleep.

Get some more sunlight. I heard a podcast the other day about sunlight’s restorative powers. Not many things help your body as much as sunlight.

Finally, drop your bad habits. If you smoke, it’s time to quit. If you crave late night snacks, stop. Both of these contribute to the problems associated with metabolic syndrome.

Medications

In some cases, lifestyle changes alone may not be enough to manage metabolic syndrome. I hope you won’t have to get on medications. Many of them are scary. In fact several have worse complications than what they treat. But if you do take things like Metformin or Ozempic, work to ensure your use is short-lived. I have been off both for more than a year.

Frequently Asked Questions about Metabolic Syndrome

What are the five signs of metabolic syndrome?

According to the Mayo Clinic, the five signs of metabolic syndrome are:

1. Large waist circumference: Men with a waist circumference of 40 inches or more and women with a waist circumference of 35 inches or more are at increased risk of metabolic syndrome.
2. High blood pressure: Blood pressure of 130/85 mm Hg or higher or taking blood pressure medications.
3. High triglyceride levels: Triglycerides of 150 mg/dL or higher.
4. Low HDL cholesterol: HDL cholesterol less than 40 mg/dL in men and less than 50 mg/dL in women.
5. High fasting blood sugar: Blood sugar of 100 mg/dL or higher.

What is the main cause of metabolic syndrome?

The exact cause of metabolic syndrome is unknown. However, insulin resistance is the most likely culprit. Insulin resistance occurs when the body’s cells grow less sensitive to the effects of insulin. This hormone regulates blood sugar levels. Insulin helps transport glucose into your cells to provide fuel.

We need glucose. But when we have too much, our cells stop accepting more. Your pancreas creates more insulin to get the glucose out of our bloodstream. But ultimately it ends up in the liver and is converted to triglycerides.

Your body stores the triglycerides in your fat cells. But a whole host of bad things accompany this process.

How do you break metabolic syndrome?

The best way to break metabolic syndrome is to make lifestyle changes. We don’t want to run more risks than we need to. Improving your insulin sensitivity is vital. Doing so will cut your risk of heart disease and stroke. According to the American Heart Association, the following lifestyle changes may be helpful:

1. Lose weight: Losing as little as 5% to 10% of body weight can improve insulin resistance. In addition weight loss will improve sleep apnea. And that will also reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
2. Exercise regularly: Go for a daily 30 minute walk. Or hit the weight room for 15-20 minutes every other day.
3. Eat a healthy diet: Choose foods that are low in carbohydrates. You can choose a more ketogenic diet. But I find lean protein to be an ideal starting point for every meal.
4. Manage stress: Stress is a silent killed. It increases risk of heart disease and stroke. So it’s important to find ways to manage stress. Practice meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
5. Quit smoking: If you smoke, stop. If you don’t, good.

You will want to make these lifestyle changes. You too may be able to break metabolic syndrome and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Conclusion

Metabolic syndrome is a serious health condition. I hope after reading this article you see that. Moreover, I want you to decrease the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

So quickly, let’s recap the symptoms you should watch for.

1. Pay attention to your blood pressure. If you see spikes, you may be at risk.
2. If you are not monitoring your blood sugar, now is the time to start.
3. At your next physical, ask for a full lipid and metabolic panel. Your doctor likely will order these. But you can get them checked at many labs even without doctor’s orders.
4. Look at how your clothes fit. Excess body fat around the waist is a very visible sign that something is wrong.

You may not notice any immediate physical symptoms. I sure didn’t. And that lack of an immediate change cost me so much. Check with your doctor if you have any of the risk factors associated with the condition. Once again, the big risk factors include:

• being overweight or obese
• having a sedentary lifestyle
• family history of metabolic syndrome or related conditions

So our goal is to manage metabolic syndrome. Better yet, I want you to overcome it. Start with lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and weight loss. If your doctor wants to put you on Metformin or other medications, you should give it thought. But most once you start down that road, it’s hard to get off.

It is important to note that metabolic syndrome is a complex condition. As such, your condition requires individualized treatment. Therefore, it is essential to work closely with a healthcare provider. You’ll want to develop a personalized plan that addresses all of your risk factors. But you can take the first step right now. With this guide to you now know the symptoms associated with metabolic syndrome.

Overall, early detection and treatment of metabolic syndrome can save your life. My goal is to help you overcome metabolic syndrome. In doing so, you’ll reduce complications and improve your quality of life.