Obesity

INTERNAL MEDICINE

Obesity is a medical condition characterized by excess body fat that accumulates to the point where it can have a negative impact on a person’s health. It is commonly defined by a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, which is calculated by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by their height in meters squared.

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What is Obesity?

Obesity is caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, lifestyle habits, and environmental influences. Some common risk factors for obesity include a diet high in calories and unhealthy fats, a sedentary lifestyle, and certain medical conditions or medications that can contribute to weight gain.

Symptoms of Obesity

Obesity is typically diagnosed based on a person’s body mass index (BMI), which is a calculation of weight in relation to height. However, there are also some physical symptoms and health problems associated with obesity. Some common symptoms of obesity include:

Excess body fat: This is the primary symptom of obesity. People with obesity have an excessive amount of body fat that accumulates in areas such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, and buttocks.
Difficulty with physical activity: People with obesity may find it difficult to perform physical activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or exercising due to excess weight and lack of muscle strength.
Breathlessness: Obesity can put a strain on the respiratory system, leading to breathlessness even with minimal physical activity.
Fatigue: People with obesity may experience fatigue and low energy levels due to the extra effort required to carry the excess weight.
Joint pain: Obesity can cause joint pain, particularly in the knees, hips, and back, due to the increased pressure placed on these joints.
Sleep apnea: Obesity is a common cause of sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing stops and starts during sleep, leading to poor quality sleep and daytime fatigue.
Skin issues: People with obesity may develop skin issues such as skin tags, rashes, and skin infections due to the excessive skin folds caused by excess fat.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about your weight and the potential risks associated with obesity. They can help you develop a plan to improve your health and manage your weight.

Obesity Treatment Options

Obesity treatment typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medical interventions. The goal of treatment is to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of associated health problems, and improve overall health and well-being. Some common treatment options for obesity include:

Dietary changes: Eating a healthy and balanced diet with a focus on whole foods, fruits, and vegetables can help reduce calorie intake and promote weight loss. Reducing portion sizes and avoiding sugary, processed, and high-fat foods can also be helpful.
Physical activity: Regular exercise can help burn calories and build muscle, leading to weight loss and improved overall health. It is recommended to aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.
Behavioral therapy: Working with a mental health professional or a registered dietitian can help address underlying psychological and emotional issues related to food and eating behaviors, leading to long-term weight management.
Medications: Prescription weight loss medications, such as orlistat and liraglutide, may be prescribed to aid in weight loss for people who are obese or overweight with certain medical conditions.
Bariatric surgery: In some cases, bariatric surgery may be recommended for people with severe obesity. Procedures such as gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, and adjustable gastric banding can help reduce the size of the stomach and promote weight loss.

It is important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses individual needs and goals. Lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, should be considered first-line treatments, with medical interventions used as additional tools to aid in weight loss and management.

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Our Providers

As a healthcare provider specializing in various treatments, Dr. Maimoona Inayat is committed to helping her patients achieve a healthy weight and improve their overall health. Her approach to obesity treatment is personalized and comprehensive, focusing on lifestyle modifications, medical interventions, and ongoing support.