Diseases Of Overweight And Obesity
Many of us only recognize the truth about obesity when we feel as a real threat to our health, our life.
The pathological sequelae and metabolic and clinical complications resulting from overweight and obesity are many. Awareness of them is very important in making a final decision to take care and have a better quality of life.
Diseases caused by obesity
Hyperinsulinemia. Insulin resistance and diabetes. In the obese, both pancreatic secretion and plasma insulin levels are increased, there is also a part of insulin resistance due to decreased number of insulin receptors and a postreceptor defect. This increased resistance and increased insulin requirements determine pancreatic failure and the onset of diabetes mellitus.
Hyperlipidemia. There is an increase in levels of triglycerides, reduced HDL-cholesterol and increased LDL-cholesterol. Altered lipid profile and increased cardiac work give the obese patients at high risk of coronary heart disease.
Peripheral vascular disease. Increased risk of varicose veins, edema and trophic changes in the lower extremities. Is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolic disease.
Hypertension. The insulin resistance and hyperinsulinism may be responsible for the increased renal tubular reabsorption of sodium and explains the high prevalence of hypertension. The weight loss is accompanied by a significant decline in the numbers of blood pressure, even without performing low salt diet.
Cardiovascular diseases. Obesity can lead to an increase
of blood volume, left ventricular diastolic volume and cardiac output, medium-term responsible hypertrophy and left ventricular dilation. Congestive heart failure and sudden death are much more frequent in obese patients.
Cholelithiasis and hepatic steatosis. Obesity is often accompanied by a fatty liver, and obese patients at high risk of developing cholelithiasis.
Musculoskeletal problems. Biomechanical factors (overload), with the column and knee osteoarthritis a common complication in people with obesity.
Hyperuricemia and gout. Hyperuricemia the obese patient is multifactorial. Is decreased uric acid clearance and increased production.
Breathing problems. Morbid obesity may be associated with abnormalities of ventilation leading to chronic hypoxia. The hyperventilation associated with hypoxia and long periods of sleepiness are called Pickwick syndrome. These patients are at high risk for heart failure. Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a common clinical manifestation in the obese.
Cancer. In women increases the risk of endometrial cancer, breast, gallbladder and bile ducts. In humans, especially associated with colon cancer, rectum and prostate.
Psychological problems. Morbid obesity leads to serious psychological disorders in general and adaptation to the environment. Depression and anxiety often occur.