subject: What Is Morbid Obesity? [print this page] What Is Morbid Obesity? What Is Morbid Obesity?
A person is labeled as 'obese' as per National Institutes of Health (NIH) if he or she has a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. The term 'morbid obesity' (clinically severe obesity) is given to the disease condition when the person is about 50-100 percent over the ideal body weight or about 100 pounds more than the required weight. Such people also suffer from high blood pressure and diabetes. It can affect any age group but is more commonly seen among teenagers.
Causes
As per statistics''it is said that at least 9 million Americans are morbidly obese. This condition is posed as a serious national health crisis. The transition from ideal weight to this condition results due to a large intake of high caloric foods and a slow metabolic rate in burning the same.
Genetic factors- it is quite possible for an affected person to have a family history of obesity.
Environment- this can have a big impact for developing morbid obesity. This includes the quantity of food available to the personthe type of foodthe physical activity for the person at workdiet and exercise routine. The above factors can influence a conscious and healthy lifestyle.
Psychological factors- psychological disturbances like anxietyboredomstresstraumafeeling low can cause a person to over eat and under exercise. This can be helped by identifying the problem and seeking help to avoid overeating.
Falling ill can also be a factor as in Cushing's syndromeneurological problemshypothyroidism etc. Use of medications like steroids and antidepressants can also play a major role in developing this condition.
Risks-
Morbid Obesity is now the second leading disease condition for cause of death in the United States. This condition usually aggravates other health complications. A person's movementphysical activity and morale get affected badly. Some of the conditions affected by obesity are-
Stroke
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Coronary heart disease
Cirrhosis
Gout
Gall bladder disease
Respiratory problems like snoringinsomnia
Cancer
Gynecological or hormonal problems in women- menstrual problems like irregular or absent periods or pain during the cycle
Osteoarthritis-especially in the knees and hips causing wear and tearpain with inflammation
Depression- due to constant emotional challenges as in criticismremarks from strangers and familyfailed diet practices
Urinary stress incontinence- pressure of large and heavy abdomen on the pelvis weakens the urinary valve causing leaking while sneezing or coughing
If a person is suffering from morbid obesityit is very essential to seek medical treatment mostly effectively being surgery. It is good to consult a qualified and experienced surgeon regarding your problem and your medical history and follow his advice and steps for better health.
