Metabolic Syndrome

The term metabolic syndrome describes a group of health problems, including too much fat around the waist, elevated blood pressure, high triglycerides, elevated blood sugar, and low HDL cholesterol. Individually, each is a problem. Together, they dramatically raise your risk of heart attack, stroke, and diabetes.

Bottom line, metabolic syndrome is caused by an unhealthy lifestyle – eating too many calories, being inactive and gaining weight. This lifestyle can lead to insulin resistance, or the inability of our body to use insulin properly. As a result, your blood sugar will begin to rise. Over time, this can lead to type 2 diabetes.

The main goal of treatment is to reduce your risk of coronary artery disease and diabetes. This will include eating healthy, losing weight and remaining physically active. It may also include medications to control high blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes.

As needed, your doctor may refer you to Mercy specialists. Together, we can get you on the road to a healthier lifestyle and a longer, more rewarding life.