How to Treat Syndrome X

Syndrome X, also called metabolic syndrome, is a group of conditions that a person can suffer from that puts him at an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes. These conditions include high blood pressure, high blood sugar, elevated triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol levels (the good type of cholesterol), and excess fat in the waist area. Although the exact cause of Syndrome X has yet to be determined, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases has suggested that insulin resistance may be a factor.

Instructions

• 1

  Make an appointment with your doctor to confirm diagnosis of Syndrome X. She will likely measure your waist and take your blood pressure. She'll also order blood work in order to evaluate your blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

• 2

  Once your doctor diagnoses Syndrome X, discuss treatment options with him. One to two weeks after testing, return to your doctor's office to go over the test results and to determine how to treat the disorder.

• 3

  Lose weight. Doctors recommend that you lose a minimum of five to ten percent of your current body weight if you have been diagnosed with Syndrome X. To start, your doctor will likely recommend that you begin a moderate exercise regimen that incorporates at least half an hour of exercise each day.

• 4

  Change your diet. According to the Mayo Clinic, the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and Mediterranean diets are often recommended to Syndrome X sufferers. These diets rely heavily on the consumption of fruits, vegetables, fish, and whole grain breads. Both diets recommend reducing foods high in saturated fat.

• 5

  Take medications to control your blood pressure and cholesterol levels if directed by your physician. Your doctor may prescribe medications to lower your blood pressure as well as raise your HDL cholesterol levels if the lifestyle changes you make are ineffective at treating Syndrome X.

• 6

  Ask your doctor about aspirin therapy. Aspirin therapy involves a daily dose of aspirin in order to reduce your chance of suffering a heart attack or stroke. This is important since Syndrome X patients are at a higher risk for both.