Gastric Bypass - Aid to the heart

Let’s face facts. Obesity is a major problem in America, but overeating is only a portion of the problem. There are many factors that may contribute to obesity. Genetics, hyperthyroidism, weak metabolism or drug therapy may cause a person to gain weight. The increased weight leads to all sorts of health problems such as sleep apnea, diabetes and the worst of all, heart problems.

Being overweight makes the heart work harder to perform the necessary functions of supplying blood to the body. Over time, the muscle can weaken leading to heart failure or a heart attack. People with morbid obesity and co-morbidities like diabetes and sleep apnea may benefit from gastric bypass bariatric surgery.

Gastric bypass surgery in Michigan is much safer than it was 20 years ago. No longer do surgeons have to split the ribcage to perform the bypass, but instead a surgeon can perform a laparoscopical procedure in an outpatient setting. The stomach is reduced drastically to the size of only a few ounces and is stapled or stitched closed. Once done, the patient will have to readjust eating behaviors for a few weeks to months while the body copes with the surgery.

Weight loss is almost instantaneous. In fact, many people who have gastric bypass must continually buy smaller and smaller clothes until their goal weight is met. This surgery also can help control diabetes and sleep apnea because body adjusts to a smaller size. Frequently, the diabetes and apnea are completely reversed because of the surgery as well.

Once the body begins to drop weight, the heart is able to pump blood easier, and the chances of a heart attack, disease or failure reduce significantly. The patient has renewed energy, vigor and outlook on life as a consequence.

If you live in Michigan or Canada, have a BMI of 35 or more, and have co-morbidities, you may be a candidate for bariatric gastric bypass surgery. Interested parties may contact weight loss surgery in Michigan, and inquire about bariatric surgical options. Of course before any surgery, consult your primary care physician about weight loss options.

Sometimes a healthy diet and exercise are not enough for some patients, and drastic measures are necessary. Bariatric surgery, like any surgical procedure, has some inherent risks associated with surgery. Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor, and if necessary, bring in a list of potential questions you have for the surgeon. Your heart, health and overall feeling will thank you in the long run.