Ask the Doctors: Metabolic Syndrome; Flushed Skin; Knuckle Cracking
Q: What is metabolic syndrome?
A: This refers to a group of risk factors that increases your risk for heart disease and other health problems, such as diabetes and stroke. A patient is diagnosed with metabolic syndrome when three of the following five conditions occur: The first risk factor is a large waistline, which is also referred to as abdominal obesity. In general, it means that a woman’s waistline exceeds 35 inches and a man’s, more than 40 inches. Excess weight in the waistline puts you at greater risk for heart disease versus excess weight in other parts of the body, such as the hips. Having a high triglyceride level (or being treated for it) is a second risk factor. Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood that also increase heart disease risk and other conditions. Third, a low HDL cholesterol level is a risk factor because HDL helps remove fat from the blood. Taking medications for low HDL is also considered a risk factor because that condition exists. High blood pressure (or taking medications to control it) is the fourth risk component of metabolic syndrome. Blood pressure that stays high can damage the heart and also lead to a buildup of plaque. Finally, the fifth metabolic syndrome risk factor is a high fasting blood sugar number (or being on medicine for it). High blood sugar, even if it’s mild, is an early warning sign of diabetes. These risk factors don’t generally have obvious signs, except for abdominal obesity, which can be readily seen and measured. Diagnosis is based on a physical exam and blood tests. You can prevent metabolic syndrome with a healthy lifestyle, meaning eat healthfully, exercise and don’t smoke.
Q: I’m a woman in my early 60s, and for several years, the skin on my neck and upper chest constantly looks flushed and reddish. I stay out of the sun. What might this be?
A: It sounds like an age-related condition called poikilderma of Civatte. While you may not be in the sun much now, it can be the result of sun damage. It’s considered a benign condition and can also appear on the sides of the face as well as the neck and upper chest. It mostly affects fair-skinned, postmenopausal women, though some men may also have it. Drugs that increase sun sensitivity may also cause this condition, and there have been some reports of it due to allergic reactions to the chemicals in perfume or other skin products. If you suspect that’s the case, stop using the product and it will likely go away. While the condition is benign, it’s always a good idea to have your skin checked by a dermatologist yearly. Treatments with intense pulse light (IPL) have been successful in removing the blotches in many patients. Protecting the area with SPF clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and sunscreen may also reduce some of the redness. Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before exposure in all seasons. Keep in mind that damaging rays can get through even when it’s overcast.
Q: My husband has a bad habit of cracking his knuckles. I find it irritating, but I also wonder if he is damaging his joints by doing so.
A: Our joints can be quite noisy as we age, whether we deliberately crack our knuckles or not. Creaky knees and even pops in the hip are not uncommon. The cracking sound is thought to come from the sudden release of nitrogen gas bubbles in the synovial fluid that naturally lubricates joints. Sometimes, such as with the hip, the popping sound can come from tendons sliding over bones or tissues. Unless there is swelling or pain, these noises are considered harmless and they do not cause arthritis. Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is caused by excess wear and tear to the joints. The hips and knees are especially prone, as they bear much of the body weight. Some osteoarthritis occurs with normal aging. It can result from high-impact activities like running and jumping, or being overweight. Low-impact workouts such as swimming and biking are more joint-friendly choices. Stretching is good for joints. Strengthening the leg muscles can also be helpful.
—Editor-in-Chief Jonathan Wanagat, MD, PhD
The post Ask the Doctors: Metabolic Syndrome; Flushed Skin; Knuckle Cracking appeared first on University Health News.
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