Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is a medical procedure designed to help people with severe obesity lose weight. It works by changing how the digestive system functions, either by reducing stomach size or altering digestion. This surgery not only promotes weight loss but also improves health conditions linked to obesity, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

Understanding Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric procedures include gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and adjustable gastric banding. These surgeries restrict food intake, reduce nutrient absorption, or both. Bariatric surgery is usually recommended when other weight loss methods have failed, and the patient’s health is at risk due to obesity-related conditions.


Symptoms and Signs That May Require Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery may be considered if you have a body mass index (BMI) over 40, or over 35 with obesity-related health problems like diabetes, heart disease, or sleep apnea. Symptoms include difficulty with physical activity, joint pain, breathing problems, or poor control of chronic conditions.


Causes and Risk Factors for Obesity?

Obesity results from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Poor diet, physical inactivity, genetics, hormonal imbalances, and certain medications can contribute. Risk factors include family history, age, stress, lack of sleep, and chronic health issues like hypothyroidism.


Treatment and Recovery from Bariatric Surgery?

Recovery depends on the procedure performed. Most patients stay in the hospital for one to three days and gradually return to normal activities within weeks. Diet changes are crucial, starting with liquids and progressing to soft foods. Long-term follow-up includes monitoring for nutritional deficiencies, lifestyle changes, and weight management support.


When to Seek Medical Help After Bariatric Surgery?

Seek immediate care if you experience severe abdominal pain, vomiting, bleeding, or signs of infection. Complications such as leaks, blood clots, or nutritional deficiencies can occur. Ongoing monitoring by your doctor is important to ensure recovery and long-term success after bariatric surgery.


Other Terms
Bacteremia | Bacteria | Balance | Balloon Angioplasty | Balloon Dilation | Barium Study | Barrett’s Esophagus | Basal Cell Carcinoma | Basilar Artery | Benign | Beriberi | Bifurcation | Bile Acids | Bioavailability | Biomarker | Biopsy | Birefringent | Bladder | Blood Group | Blood Pressure | Bradycardia | Bronchiectasis | Bronchoscope | Bronchoscopy | Bronchus