Addressing Medical Conditions with Bariatric Surgery

Posted by Dr. Nick Nicholson on June 30th, 2014

Those who struggle with obesity are faced with more than just weight; they often have to deal with the many medical conditions that can occur as a result of that weight. Ultimately, these conditions are what can be the most life-threatening for patients and - in the end - they are often the reasons that most people choose to go forward with weight loss surgery.

So what medical conditions may be addressed through bariatric surgery and subsequent weight loss?

• Diabetes - Most often related to weight, Type 2 diabetes is a result of the body becoming insulin resistant. There are also a variety of secondary conditions that can result from diabetes including heart disease, nerve damage, eye problems, and more.

• High Blood Pressure - A significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure is often tied to weight. As a result, high blood pressure can be dramatically reduced with weight loss.

• Fatty Liver - Obesity puts an enormous strain on the liver, sometimes causing fat to accumulate in the organ itself. A fatty liver increases the risk for liver failure and liver cancer.

• Infertility - Many people do not realize that obesity can seriously complicate the ability to get pregnant and stay pregnant. For men, obesity has been shown to lower testosterone levels.

• Sleep Apnea - When breathing is interrupted temporarily during sleep, this is known as sleep apnea. When a person is carrying extra weight, their risk of sleep apnea increases and ongoing apnea can result in a variety of health complications including heart disease and high blood pressure. If left unchecked, sleep apnea can even be life-threatening.

Most people find that when they undergo weight loss surgery, and begin to lose weight, their medical conditions also begin to gradually lessen. Ultimately, the goal is to eliminate these conditions in the overall quest for good health.

Contact us today at the Nicholson Clinic to learn about the conditions that may be improved through weight loss surgery.

About Author:-

One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, nurses and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with LAP-BAND, Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy and Revisions.