It is a term used to describe body weight that is much greater than is considered healthy. If a person is obese, has a much higher amount of body fat than lean muscle mass.
Adults with a BMI over 30 are considered obese.
It is believed that anyone with more than 45 kg (100 pounds) overweight with a BMI greater than 40 morbidly obese.
Alternative Names
Morbid obesity, overweight or obese
Causes, incidence and risk factors
Obesity rates are increasing. The percentage of overweight children has doubled and the percentage of obese adolescents has tripled in the last 20 years.
Consuming more calories than you burn leads to being overweight and, eventually, obesity. The body stores unused calories as fat. Obesity may be the result of:
* Eating more than the body can use
* Drinking too much alcohol
* Not getting enough exercise
Certain thyroid problems may also lead to this significant weight gain. Genetic factors play some part in the development of obesity, in fact, children of obese parents are 10 times more likely to be obese than children of normal weight.
Obesity is a significant health threat. The extra weight puts unusual stress on all parts of the body and increases the risk of diabetes, stroke, heart disease, kidney and gallbladder disease. Conditions such as hypertension and high cholesterol, which were once thought to mainly affect adults, are often seen in children who are obese. Obesity may also increase the risk of some cancers. People who are obese are more likely to develop osteoarthritis and sleep apnea.
Exams and Tests
The doctor will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your medical history, eating habits and exercise routine.
Action can be taken to verify skinfold body composition.
They can also perform blood tests to look for thyroid or endocrine problems that could lead to weight gain.
Treatment
A combination of caloric restriction and exercise (when fully complies) seems to be more effective than either of the two options separately. Sticking to a weight reduction program is difficult and requires much support from family and friends.
Even modest weight loss can improve health. It is important to work with your doctor or dietitian to develop the best plan for each particular case. For most people, you can lose weight by eating a healthy diet, exercising more, and adopting new behaviors such as keeping a food diary, avoiding triggers of food consumption and thinking positively.
There are many OTC diet products, but most do not work and some can be dangerous, so it is advised to consult with your doctor first before using one.
Prescription drugs for weight loss are available and include subutramina (Meridia) and orlistat (Xenical). You should ask your doctor if these are right in each particular case.
Surgery may be an option for those who are morbidly obese and can not lose weight using other methods. The weight loss surgery, such as placing adjustable bands around the stomach and gastric bypass surgery can significantly improve weight and health in the right candidate. Each person should speak with your doctor to see if it is a good option in your particular case.
Support Groups
Many people find it easier to follow a diet and exercise program if they join a group of people with similar problems.
View: support groups for eating disorders
Complications
Medical problems commonly resulting from untreated obesity and morbid obesity include:
* Diabetes
* Hypertension
* Heart
* Stroke
* Certain cancers, including breast and colon
* Depression
* Osteoarthritis
Obesity can lead to a gradual decrease in the level of oxygen in the blood, a condition called hypoxemia. Obese people may temporarily stop breathing while asleep (sleep apnea). The decrease in oxygen levels and sleep apnea can cause a person to feel sleepy during the day. The conditions may also lead to high blood pressure and pulmonary hypertension. In extreme cases, especially when left untreated, this can lead to heart failure in the right side and ultimately death.
Calling your health care
Call to schedule an appointment with your doctor if you or your child are obese or gaining weight at an extremely rapid. Do not forget to address the problem when just starting is much simpler than trying to fix it after the person has gained excess weight.
Prevention
A healthy diet and regular exercise can help prevent weight gain. Is recommended to increase daily activity. It is also advisable to take the stairs instead of elevator or walking instead of driving whenever possible.
See also:
* Exercise and weight loss
* Weight loss
* Weight Management
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