The metabolic syndrome is a set of complications of obesity that lead to premature type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications. It can affect 40-70% of obese adolescents.
Symptoms and course metabolic syndrome in children
Criteria for metabolic syndrome include obesity as expressed by waist circumference measurement, hypertension, abnormal blood sugar and lipid levels. More than half of children with hypertension are overweight and about 40% have significant myocardial hypertrophy at the time of diagnosis.
Cardiovascular complications are a higher risk:
- heart attack
- strokes,
- kidney failure,
- visual impairment in adulthood.
Deteriorating quality of life due to:
- postural defects,
- headaches,
- secondary endocrine disorders,
- early liver steatosis,
- sleep disorders,
- caries tendencies,
- lowered mood,
- low self-esteem and depression.
When to go to the doctor and treat metabolic syndrome in children
A child with overweight and obesity, elevated blood pressure should be cared for by a paediatrician and diagnosed for metabolic syndrome. Consultation of an endocrinologist, cardiologist, dietician and psychologist may be needed. The family history of obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, poor eating habits and low physical activity, combined with the disorders found in the child, translates into the perpetuation of habits in adulthood and the early development of complications.
Treatment metabolic syndrome in children
Lifestyle changes leading to weight loss are fundamental. This is achieved by increasing physical activity and a reduction diet with a low glycaemic index. It is important to treat complications and diseases that cause obesity. Early intervention can improve health and reduce the risk of complications.
