SymptomsThe primary warning sign of
obesity is an above-average body weight. If you are obese, you may also experience :
- Trouble sleeping
- Sleep apnea (a condition in which breathing is irregular and periodically stops during sleep)
- Shortness of breath
- Varicose veins
- Skin problems caused by moisture that accumulates in the folds of your skin
- Gallstones
- Osteoarthritis in weight-bearing joints, especially the knees
Obesity has also been linked to
high blood pressure, as well as to high levels of
blood sugar ( diabetes ),
cholesterol and triglycerides.
DiagnosisObesity is diagnosed by calculating your BMI. BMI is based on your height and weight. A BMI of 30 or more defines obesity. In general, this means your body weight is 35% to 40% more than your ideal body weight. Body shape is also important. People who carry most of their weight around the waist (apple shaped) have a greater risk of heart disease and diabetes than do people with big hips and thighs (pear shaped).
Your body fat also can be calculated by using skin calipers, an instrument that measures the thickness of your skin. Waist circumference is a good measure of the more dangerous abdominal obesity. Women with a waist more than 35 inches or men with a waist more than 40 inches are at increased risk.
Expected DurationObesity is often a lifelong problem. Once excess weight is gained, it is not easy to lose. And once you do lose weight, you will have to work at maintaining your healthier weight. The length of time it takes to reach your weight goal depends on how much you have to lose, your activity level, and the type of treatment or weight-loss program you choose. Diseases and conditions caused by obesity often improve as you lose weight.
