Obesity
Definition
Obesity is defined as having an excessive amount of body fat. Obesity is more than just a cosmetic concern, though. It increases your risk of diseases and health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Doctors often use a formula based on your height and weight — called the body mass index (BMI) — to determine if you are obese. Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher are considered obese. Extreme obesity, also called severe obesity or morbid obesity, occurs when you have a BMI of 40 or more. With morbid obesity, you are especially likely to have serious health problems.
|
BMI |
Weight status |
| Below 18.5 | Underweight |
| 18.5 — 24.9 | Normal |
| 25.0 — 29.9 | Overweight |
| 30.0 and higher | Obese |
Today, about one in three American adults is considered to be obese, but obesity is also becoming an increasing health problem globally. The good news is that even modest weight loss can improve or prevent the health problems associated with obesity.
Symptoms
Symptoms associated with obesity can include:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Snoring
- Sleep apnea
- Pain in your back or joints
- Excessive sweating
- Always feeling hot
- Rashes or infection in folds of your skin
- Feeling out of breath with minor exertion
- Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Depression
When to see a doctor
If you have symptoms associated with obesity such as the ones above, see your doctor or health care provider. You and your doctor can discuss your weight-loss options. Even modest weight loss can improve or prevent problems related to obesity. Weight loss is usually possible through dietary changes, increased physical activity and behavior changes. In some cases, prescription medications or weight-loss surgery may be options.
