When we hear the term obesity, we envision clips of overweight individuals, unhealthy diets, and even weight loss practices. However, have you ever thought how far obesity can go? Sometimes, it reaches an alarming state that harms the person’s health and daily life. We call this ‘Morbid Obesity’. Research implies that every 1 in 11 people are prone to severe obesity.
But why do some people develop this severe form of obesity? What are the signs that represent it? And, most importantly, how to reverse it? This blog will explore morbid obesity from all angles, comprehensively understanding its causes, symptoms, and potential treatments.
What is Morbid Obesity?
Morbid obesity (also known as class iii obesity) is the last and most critical stage of obesity. The term ‘morbid’ signifies the extreme severity of the condition. Moreover, it highlights how this kind of obesity can threaten physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Generally, people who are slightly overweight set off with a BMI of 25 to 30. However, in morbidly obese individuals, this BMI index reaches 40 and above.
Due to the condition’s dreadful nature, it cannot be confused with mild or moderate obesity. While all types of obesity are detrimental to health, morbid obesity is a step ahead because of the health risks it comes with. For example, it increases the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, stroke, osteoarthritis, and even cancer.
The Crucial Contributors of Morbid Obesity
Various contributors may combine to make a person reach morbid obesity BMI. Typically, it results from several genetic, behavioral, environmental, and biological factors. For instance:
1. Genes – The Silent Suspect
Our genes play a major role in determining how our bodies store fat, metabolize food and maintain weight. Therefore, some individuals are genetically predisposed to obesity due to their inherited traits. Usually, these genes influence fat storage and appetite regulation.
Consequently, individuals with a family history of obesity are more susceptible to it themselves. However, genes alone don’t explain the entire picture, but they make certain people more vulnerable.
2. You Are What You Eat
Unfortunately, modern society often encourages the consumption of fast foods and sugary drinks. With social media flooding with food reels and restaurant recommendations, it is difficult to maintain a healthy, balanced diet. Overeating, emotional eating and a lack of portion control can lead to an unhealthy calorie surplus. Over time, processed foods, fast food, sugars, unhealthy fats, and calories result in morbid obesity.
3. Stuck on the Office Chair?
Today, more and more people are leading sedentary lives. Sitting at worktables for long hours, spending time in front of screens, and avoiding physical activity can lead to weight gain. Exercise is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and metabolism. Naturally, when physical activity is minimal, the body becomes less efficient at burning calories, causing fat to accumulate.
4. The Hormonal Havoc: When Your Body’s Signals Go Off Track
Hormones are the hidden drivers of the human body. So, when they are in sync, the body runs smoothly. Similarly, the most minor upheaval in hormonal functioning could lead to turmoil within the body. Hence, disorders like hypothyroidism, PCOS, perimenopause, and cystic ovaries may contribute to weight gain. Particularly, this is more common amongst women in their middle ages.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Morbid Obesity
Beyond the obvious physical symptoms, morbid obesity can emerge in a variety of ways, impacting other aspects of health.
Abnormal Weight Gain
Primarily, the main sign of severe obesity is extra fat retention. With a morbid obesity BMI index of 40 or higher, people tend to suffer from uncontrolled weight gain. Commonly, excess weight accumulates around the abdomen, hips, and thighs, although it can affect the entire body.
2. Difficulty Breathing
Obesity can put a strain on the lungs and the heart, leading to shortness of breath, especially during physical activity. Even while stationary or asleep, obese people may encounter hindered breathing which can lead to sleep apnea.
3. Joint Pain
The added weight places pressure on the joints, particularly the knees, hips, and lower back. As a result, individuals with morbid obesity often experience chronic pain and inflammation in these areas, making movement difficult and painful. Eventually, this can lead to joint damage and mobility issues.
4. Increased Risk of Other Health Issues
Morbid obesity significantly increases the risk of developing various serious health conditions, such as:
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Stroke
- Certain types of cancer
- High blood pressure
- Fatty liver disease
In addition to physical symptoms, mental health can also be impacted, as people may experience feelings of depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Often, this is due to the stigma often associated with obesity. Therefore, people with severe obesity require close monitoring of their physical and emotional state of health.
Treating Morbid Obesity
The road to managing morbid obesity often requires a multifaceted approach, combining medical, psychological, and lifestyle interventions. Here’s an overview:
Adopting a Healthy Lifestyle
The foundation of any weight-loss program begins with adopting healthier habits. For instance, you can start by consulting a dietician and obtaining a suitable meal plan with a balanced calorie intake. Moreover, you must incorporate at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity in your week’s schedule. Also, you can work with a therapist to address emotional eating and build healthier relationships with food.
Medical intervention
Rarely, the diagnosis of an obese individual may suggest a more serious approach. In some cases, healthcare specialists may prescribe weight-loss medications to help manage morbid obesity. Mostly, these medications are used in conjunction with lifestyle changes and are not a standalone solution. They can help suppress appetite or prevent the absorption of fats.
Additionally, due to increased fatigue in obese individuals, at-home care can be a comfortable and effective option. To choose a plan of treatment for morbid obesity, it is essential to perform wellness exams regularly. Afterward, when there is no visible success with diet, exercise, and medication, bariatric surgery may be considered.
Conclusion – A Well-Defined Body Leads to Better Health
Morbid obesity is a deeply complex condition that touches almost every part of a person’s life. Yet, it doesn’t define who they are or what they can achieve. Understanding its root causes, recognizing its symptoms, and exploring the available treatments are the first steps in taking control.
Initially, the journey may seem daunting, but there is always hope—and help. With the right combination of medical care, lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes even surgical options, those affected can not only manage but transform their health and well-being. If you or someone you care about is facing the challenges of morbid obesity, collaborate with healthcare professionals, weight loss counselors, and dieticians for efficient treatment modules.
