Medical Complications of Obesity from Michael D. Myers, M.D., Inc.

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Complications of obesity

Gallstones

Obesity is frequently complicated by gallstones. Approximately 25% of obese individuals have gallstones, often resulting in surgery. The increase in cholesterol that results from obesity is one of the major reasons for the increased incidence of gallstones.

For general information on gallstones, click here.

Heart attacks and strokes

There is an increased incidence of strokes and heart attacks in obese individuals. This increase is both independent of and additive to the increased risk associated with the elevated blood pressure, diabetes, and elevated cholesterol frequently associated with obesity. This increased risk appears to be related to substances produced by adipose (fat tissue) that make it easier for blood clots to form. Overall, obesity results in premature death. As a general rule, for every pound (approximately 1/2 kg.) over your ideal body weight, subtract one month from your life expectancy.

Sleep disorders

As people gain weight, many complain that they feel tired all the time and may have problems obtaining a restful sleep. Problems with sleep may be indicative of a severe condition called Pickwickian Syndrome, or sleep apnea. For people with this problem, it becomes progressively more difficult to breathe (especially at night) as their weight increases. These people typically snore severely and have episodes when they stop breathing completely, sometimes for up to one minute at a time. During these apneic (not breathing) periods, heart rhythms may become very irregular, which can lead to a fatal heart attack. People affected with sleep apnea transiently awaken when they resume breathing. This may occur hundreds of times per night, causing the afflicted individual to feel tired the next day. Sometimes, these individuals will fall asleep while sitting in meetings or driving. Sleep apnea is a very serious complication of obesity and requires professional medical attention. The best method of treatment is weight reduction; however, other measures are available to improve the breathing process and help prevent the heart irregularities that frequently complicate this condition.

For general information on sleep apnea, click here.

Depression

People with lesser degrees of obesity may also have problems sleeping. Sleep disturbances are also associated with anxiety and depression. Depression is not just feeling blue for a day, but is the result of actual chemical changes that take place in the brain, causing profound episodes of sadness, crying, and loss of energy. Depression is a medical condition that requires medical treatment. There are effective non-addicting medications available if depression is complicating obesity.

For general information on depression, click here.

This is not intended to be a comprehensive list of medical complications related to obesity (obesity affects virtually every organ system). This list provides insight into some of the more common obesity-related conditions.

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Disclaimer Statement

The above information is for general purposes only and should not be construed as definitive or binding medical advice. Because each person is medically different, individuals should consult their own personal physicians for specific information and/or treatment recommendations.