The Metabolic Syndrome, also known as Dysmetabolic Syndrome X, is a condition that, if untreated, can lead to premature death due to cardiovascular causes, such as heart attack and stroke. It is defined by a constellation of risk factors related to physical findings and lab values as noted below. These factors are associated with Insulin Resistance by the body, leading to elevated levels of Insulin, which is believed to be the cause of the tissue damage. In addition to causing cardiovascular complications in both men and women, the Metabolic Syndrome is a very common cause of Infertility by causing the Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in women.
Are you at risk for The Metabolic Syndrome?
If you have any 3 of the following 5 risk factors, you should be evaluated for this syndrome.
Abdominal Obesity: Defined as waist size greater than 40 inches (102 cm) in men, or 35 inches (88 cm) in women
Low HDL Cholesterol (The good cholesterol): HDL of less than 40 mg/dl in men, or less than 50 mg/dl in women
High Triglycerides: 150 mg/dl or greater
Borderline/High Blood Pressure: 130/85 mmHg or greater
Elevated Fasting Glucose: 110 mg/dl or greater
Further information about the Metabolic Syndrome and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome can be found by clicking on the link below: