What Is Bariatric Care?
Posted on: 7 November 2022
Bariatric care is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of obesity. More than just being overweight, obesity is a medical condition in which a person has an abnormally high body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, which puts them at risk for a variety of health complications. Bariatric care encompasses everything from diet and lifestyle changes to medication and surgery. Here's what you need to know.
What Causes Obesity?
There are many different causes of obesity, including genetics, lifestyle choices, sedentary lifestyle, and hormonal imbalances. Obesity can lead to a number of health problems, including Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and even premature death. Bariatric care specialists are dedicated to working with patients to develop treatment plans that can help them lose weight, keep it off, and improve their overall health.
What Procedures Does Bariatric Care Include?
Several different types of bariatric procedures can be used to treat obesity. The type of procedure that is right for a patient will depend on their individual situation, including current health risks, weight loss goals, and personal preference. Some common types of bariatric procedures include:
- Gastric bypass surgery. Gastric bypass surgery is a type of weight-loss surgery that involves rerouting the intestines so that they bypass the stomach. This surgery can help patients lose large amounts of excess body weight by changing the way food is digested by the body.
- Gastric sleeve surgery. While gastric bypass surgery reroutes the intestines, gastric sleeve surgery simply removes a portion of the stomach to decrease its capacity. This surgical method also helps patients lose weight by only permitting them to have small meals.
- Bariatric revision surgery. Bariatric revision surgery is a type of surgery that is performed to correct or improve the results of previous weight-loss surgery. This type of surgery may be an option for patients who have regained weight after previous weight-loss surgery or for patients who are having complications from previous weight-loss surgery.
It is important to remember that surgery is a serious and non-reversible procedure. It should only be performed after you have explored other, less invasive bariatric services.
If you are struggling with obesity, there are many options available to you through bariatric care. These options range from lifestyle changes to surgical procedures. Your doctor can work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs and helps you improve your overall health.
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