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An epidemic in the USA, obesity contributes to 300,000 deaths per year. Since there are so many factors that can contribute to obesity, it is important to realize that no medical intervention (including surgery) is intended to be a cure. Instead, weight loss options are considered to reduce the effects of obesity and alleviate the serious physical, emotional and social consequences of the disease.
What is Obesity?
Obesity results from an excessive accumulation of fat that exceeds the body’s skeletal and physical medical standards. According to the National Institutes of Health, obesity is defined as an increase in 20 percent or more above your ideal body weight, at which point excess weight becomes a health risk. More than one-third of today’s adult population is currently overweight or obese.
What is Morbid Obesity?
An estimated 5 to 10 million people are considered morbidly obese. When obesity reaches the point of significantly increasing your risk of one or more obesity-related health conditions or serious diseases that result in significant physical disability or death, you are considered “morbidly obese.” Some physicians refer to this disease as “clinically severe obesity” as well, but both descriptions can be used interchangeably. When you are 100 pounds or more over ideal body weight (or have a BMI of 40 or higher), you are considered morbidly obese. The National Institutes of Health indicates that morbid obesity is a significant health risk. A chronic disease, morbid obesity has symptoms that build slowly over an extended period of time.
What Causes Morbid Obesity?
There are many reasons why people become obese, but – contrary to popular belief – it is not simply a result of overeating. In many cases, research indicates a significant, underlying cause that may even be genetic. For these people, dieting and exercise have limited effect. For most people, battling excess weight becomes a lifelong process. Genetics, environmental factors, metabolism, eating disorders and medical conditions all can be a part of what causes morbid obesity. Therefore, a complete medical examination is required to evaluate options for treating the disease and to rule out other conditions, such as hypothryroidism, that may cause weight gain.
What if I Choose Surgery?
Choosing to have weight loss surgery is a serious decision. Although many patients can experience increased mobility and self-esteem as the result of successful weight loss surgery, these reasons should not be the only purpose in weight loss. It’s important that patients realize that the goal is to live better, healthier and longer. That’s why discussing all your options and questions is imperative before making a decision to have weight loss surgery. Dr. Salimath will also answer any questions regarding the procedure, the recovery and follow-up care required. Consulting with a dietitian or nutritionist, a therapist or counselor may even be part of your follow-up care. After discussing your options, you must consider whether the benefits outweigh the side effects and potential complications of the surgery. Realize, too, that your ultimate success will depend on your own ability to follow recommended diet, exercise and lifestyle changes.
What Happens After Surgery?
As indicated previously, you must be prepared to make lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, in order to keep your weight down after the surgery. In addition, there will be some changes as a direct result of the surgery.
- Post-surgery diet will vary, depending upon your procedure and personal situation. However, some dietary guidelines will be standard, such as drinking plenty of fluids while eating, omitting desserts and high-calorie foods, limiting snacks and avoiding alcohol.
- Decisions regarding returning to work are dependent upon whether your procedure is performed laparoscopically and what type it is.
- Women of childbearing age should use an effective form of birth control for at least 18 months after surgery to avoid additional stress on the body and/or birth defects.
- After weight loss surgery, there are still questions regarding long-term effects on nutrition and the body. You will need periodic checks for low red blood cells (anemia), Vitamin B12, folate and iron levels. In addition, follow-up tests may be required every three to six months.
- Many patients discover that support groups are necessary to discuss the various personal and professional issues following weight loss surgery. Emotional damage and poor self-esteem as the result of morbid obesity are not instantly healed after surgery. Therefore some kind of support group or therapy is important to assist patients with this process and ensure a greater level of long-term success.
If you have any questions or concerns related to the above conditions or treatments, please contact Dr. Salimath or call 672-5975 for a professional consultation.
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