Doctor shares alert over ‘deadly syndrome’ that may lead to heart disease

One doctor is raising alarm bells about metabolic syndrome, which by definition is a cluster of conditions that occur together which ultimately can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. The serious health issue often goes undetected until it results in these more devastating conditions because the warning signs can be so subtle.

Dr Maksims Mukans, a bariatric surgeon at Weight Loss Riga, urged people to learn the five top warning signs of metabolic syndrome as early detection and lifestyle changes as a result can manage this syndrome and help people back away from the cliff’s edge of heart disease, stroke or diabetes.

Waist circumference

Dr Mukans highlighted an increased waist circumference as one of the most telling signs of metabolic syndrome highlighting that red flags for men are measurements of 40 inches or over and 35 inches or over for women. He added: “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, or readings consistently above 130/85mm Hg, could be a warning sign as the expert also pointed out that this can put extra strain on the heart and cardiovascular system, with early intervention being vital to manage high blood pressure overall.

Blood sugar levels

The doctor pinpointed blood sugar levels of 100mg/dL or higher, is a major warning sign indicating that the body is struggling to regulate glucose, one of the biggest contributing factors of diabetes. Dr Mukans particularly advised people with a family history of diabetes to monitor their blood sugar levels and intervene at the earliest possibility.

Abnormal cholesterol levels

The metabolic syndrome diagnosis is often defined by the high levels of triglycerides, usually 150mg/dL or more, and low levels of HDL cholesterol, usually 40mg/dL or less in men and 50mg/dL or less in women. Dr Mukans warned this red flag can “significantly increase your risk of deadly cardiovascular diseases”.

Fatigue and low energy

Fatigue is a warning sign for countless health issues but Dr Mukans explained: “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."

When it comes to the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome, Dr Mukans recommended a handful of lifestyle changes like choosing a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Moderate exercise, weigh management and regular monitoring or testing for metabolic syndrome is also recommended by the expert.