Metabolic syndrome (also called syndrome X) is the name for a group of risk factors related to heart disease and type 2 diabetes and is defined as the presence of any three of the following five risk factors:
Central obesity
High triglycerides
Low levels of HDL in the blood
High blood pressure
Insulin resistance
Most of the disorders associated with metabolic syndrome don't have obvious signs or symptoms. One sign that is visible is a large waist circumference. And if your blood glucose is high, you might notice the signs and symptoms of diabetes — such as increased thirst and urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. Other signs and symptoms may include:
High blood glucose levels
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Increased urination
Fatigue
Blurred vision
Increased incidence of thrush
Fungal infections of the skin
Recurring infections
The main causes and risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome are central obesity and insulin resistance. Other factors that can increase your risk for metabolic syndrome include:
Age
Family history of metabolic syndrome
Low levels of physical activity
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
To diagnose metabolic syndrome, your doctor is likely to ask you about your medical and family history, perform a physical assessment (waist circumference, blood pressure) and/or request the following tests:
Fasting insulin
Insulin Resistance Index
Lipid profile (blood)