Obesity is a condition that is defined by a patient’s body mass index. This calculation, also called your BMI, is the ratio of your height to your weight. There are various ways to calculate this ratio, and the outcome of the calculation defines whether someone is overweight, a healthy weight, or obese. Obesity II is when your BMI is between 35 and 40.
The most common symptoms of obesity class II are:
Obese patients might also experience swelling in their lower extremities, like their feet and legs, and they might have a waist circumference that is greater than 94 cm in men and 88 cm in women. High blood pressure is also a common problem for people who are obese, and some patients will have acanthosis nigricans which is a skin disorder that causes hyperpigmentation in specific areas of the body.
The risk factors for this health condition include having pre-existing health conditions that make it hard to be active or taking medications that can lead to weight gain. Steroid medications, as well as medications recommended for things like Cushing’s Syndrome and polycystic ovary syndrome, can lead to weight gain. Suffering from emotional issues and sleeping poorly can also predispose you to obesity.
The causes of obesity are usually multi-faceted. While genetics play a role in the condition, studies have shown that obesity is typically not present in those who eat a healthy diet and get enough exercise. Large portion sizes at meal times, consuming lots of sugary foods, or working a sedentary job can all cause obesity. Most patients suffer from some combination of these factors, all of which combine to lead to their obesity.
Diagnosis of obesity is made through the use of a BMI calculation. This can be done using a height-to-weight ratio chart or through the use of hand calculations that measure the circumference of someone’s waist and hip and then compare this number to their height. A skinfold pinch test can also calculate someone’s BMI with a fair amount of accuracy.
Prevention of obesity might not always be possible for every patient. This is particularly true in those who struggle with mobility and who are taking medications that can cause weight gain. However, as a general rule of thumb, being active on a daily basis and eating the right kinds of foods in the right portions will prevent obesity. Managing caloric intake and being sure to get the proper nutrition can make a huge impact on your overall body condition.
Treatment of this condition is usually done by making small changes to a patient’s routine. This means adding a small amount of physical activity while adjusting to a new diet. Over time, more physical activity will be added, and the diet will be adjusted to help meet nutritional needs, and energy usage needs as a patient is able to be more active.
In some cases, doctors might recommend that an obese patient undergoes weight loss surgery or is placed on weight loss medication. These solutions are not offered to all patients, and they are not right for everyone who needs to lose weight. Most patients who are obese will begin their treatment by working with a skilled dietician or nutritionist to adjust their diet and caloric intake to help reduce their weight. Surgery and weight loss medications will usually not be offered to patients until treatment related to exercise and a change in diet have been attempted.