An obese person is someone with a body mass index, known as BMI, of 30 or higher according to the Mayo Clinic. There are a number of serious medical conditions that can occur as a result of obesity. Obese people, or anyone struggling with weight, should contact a health-care provider to devise a diet and exercise plan on an individual basis. Even moderate weight loss can lessen the risk of most health conditions associated with obesity.
Back Pain
Back pain is a common problem associated with obesity. Additional weight puts more pressure on the spine, which causes pain and soreness. Pain, typically occurring in the lower back, is a common, short-term problem. If left untreated it can lead to long-term complications such as osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or degenerative disc disease according to SpineUniverse.com.
Cardiovascular Problems
The American Heart Association notes that obesity puts a person at a higher risk for many cardiovascular problems. Short-term problems, which arise from too much body fat, include high bad cholesterol, low good cholesterol and high blood pressure. Over time these factors can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, heart attack or stroke.
Type 2 Diabetes
Obesity also puts a person at a higher risk for type 2 diabetes. (See reference 3) Too much fat and sugar in the diet causes blood sugar levels to rise. According to the American Diabetes Association, many people are initially diagnosed with pre-diabetes, which means their blood sugar levels are higher than usual but not high enough to make them a diabetic. Pre-diabetes can be reversed through diet and weight loss before a person becomes diabetic. If appropriate measures are not taken to correct pre-diabetes, it can develop into type 2 diabetes in the long-term.
Depression
The Mayo Clinic also lists depression as a symptom of obesity. Because body image affects self-esteem, depression can occur at any time. Depression may also be attributed to the fact the obese people have a lower quality of life than the non-obese. Because of their size, they may not be able to participate in normal, daily activities that many take for granted. Anyone suffering from depression should contact a mental health specialist.
