Obesity
About Obesity
Defined as an increase in total body fat, or at least a 20% increase in one's ideal body weight. Obesity has increased in frequency in the last 20 years and it is estimated 33% of Americans are obese. One calculation of obesity is the body mass index or BMI. To calculate the BMI a patient takes their weight in pounds and multiplies it by 705, then divides this number by their height in inches, then divides this number again by their height in inches. The US Department of Health and Human Services provides a BMI calculator at http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/. A normal BMI = 18.5-24.9; overweight = 25.0-29.9; obese = 30 or greater; and morbidly obese = 40 or greater. Obesity is the second leading cause of preventable death (after smoking), and is associated with type 2 diabetes, elevated cholesterol, heart disease, arthritis, gallstones, obstructive sleep apnea, and cancer. There are many causes of obesity from genetic to environmental factors, and certain conditions including Cushing's syndrome, hypothyroidism and medications, such as steroids, can cause obesity. In the great majority of cases no secondary cause is determined.Symptoms
Most of the symptoms of obesity come from the diseases obesity causes such as arthritis, heart disease, gallstones, sleep apnea, and poor self-esteem. These symptoms include: back pain, hip pain, knee pain, ankle pain, neck pain, chest pain, breathing problems, sadness, depression, snoring, rashes in the folds of the skin, and excessive sweating.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be done. Other tests may be performed to determine the cause of the excess body fat. A BMI will be calculated.Common tests: Thyroid function test.
Conventional treatment summary
Treatment is aimed at decreasing the intake of calories while still maintaining a healthy diet, and increasing exercise. Successful programs for weight loss should be started and followed under the care of a physician and/or a nutritionist. Behavioral modification therapy and social support can help achieve positive results. Medications can be used and include orlistat and diethylpropion. Bariatric surgery such as gastric bypass and lap band procedures have been found to be effective. They are usually reserved for those patients with BMIs greater than 40, or for those with a BMI between 35-40 and with a co-existing obesity related medical problem such as diabetes.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism · Bariatric Medicine · Bariatric Surgery
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Obesity.