Diseases That Come From Obesity in Teens

Physical Effects

• Obesity during the teenage years makes a person prone to several conditions, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood sugar, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Sleep apnea, which obstructs the airways during sleep, asthma, joint problems like osteoarthritis and heart disease are possible physical effects of obesity, according to Boston Children's Hospital. Liver disease and some forms of cancer are also more likely in the obese. While these conditions many of these conditions are uncommon during the teenage years, they may be more likely to occur if a person remains obese into the later years of life.

Emotional Effects

• The emotional toll of obesity can be more devastating than the physical effects during the teenage years. Eating disorders like binge eating, or compulsive overeating, as well as struggles with anorexia and bulimia may occur as a result of obesity, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Low self-esteem caused by teasing and social discrimination may also cause teenagers to develop depression, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Causes

• Obesity and the many diseases and conditions associated with it are often caused by similar circumstances. Eating calorie-dense, nutrition-inadequate foods, a lack of regular exercise and genetics may all play a role in obesity, according to Boston Children's Hospital. More rarely, some health conditions and medications may also increase the odds of becoming obese, which in turn can increase the odds of developing obesity-related illnesses.

Additional Information

• Your teen's doctor can make diet and exercise recommendations if she is overweight, according to KidsHealth. A doctor may also refer a teen to a nutritionist or dietitian for additional help. Teenagers should not attempt to diet or exercise without first consulting a doctor, and fad diets usually do not last. A balanced, steady approach to weight loss is more likely to create lasting results on health. Teens should also address any other concerns they may have about their health as a result of obesity with a doctor, like talking about cholesterol and blood pressure levels.