A gastric specialist is a doctor who focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the stomach and digestive system. This includes conditions like ulcers, gastritis, acid reflux, and cancers of the stomach. These specialists may perform endoscopies and recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery.

Cancer of the Gastrointestinal Tract (GIT) includes cancers that affect the stomach, intestines, esophagus, colon, liver, and pancreas. Symptoms vary depending on the type of cancer but may include weight loss, blood in the stool, or persistent abdominal pain. Early detection is crucial for improving survival rates, and treatment options range from surgery to chemotherapy and radiation.

Weight management involves long-term strategies to maintain a healthy weight, including diet, exercise, behavioral changes, and sometimes medical interventions like surgery or medication. A well-rounded weight management plan focuses on sustainable habits rather than quick fixes, emphasizing portion control, balanced nutrition, and physical activity.

In medical terms, GI stands for Gastrointestinal, referring to the digestive system, which includes the stomach, intestines, and other associated organs. GI disorders encompass a wide range of conditions that affect digestion, including gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and gastrointestinal cancers.

Abdominal surgery involves any operation performed in the abdominal region, such as appendectomies, hernia repairs, or cancer removals. Minimally invasive techniques, like laparoscopy, have become common, reducing recovery time and post-operative complications.

A weight-loss shot refers to medications like Wegovy (semaglutide), which are injected to aid weight loss. These drugs work by mimicking a hormone that targets areas of the brain responsible for appetite, helping individuals feel full with less food. These injections are typically prescribed for patients with obesity or related health issues.

The NHS in the UK has started prescribing Wegovy to patients who struggle with obesity and have failed to achieve significant weight loss through diet and exercise. This medication is part of a broader initiative to provide patients with additional tools to combat the obesity epidemic. Wegovy is typically prescribed alongside lifestyle changes to maximize its effectiveness.

Bikini sleeve is a colloquial term referring to a gastric sleeve surgery performed through small, hidden incisions around the bikini line to minimize visible scarring. This technique is designed for patients who are concerned about the cosmetic appearance of their body post-surgery while achieving the same weight loss benefits as traditional Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG).

Gastro refers to gastrointestinal conditions broadly, while gastritis specifically refers to inflammation of the stomach lining. Gastro disorders can include a range of conditions affecting the entire digestive tract, whereas gastritis is a localized condition of the stomach.

Similar to slimming injections, fat loss injections such as lipotropic injections are designed to enhance metabolism and fat-burning processes. These injections often contain a combination of nutrients like B12, amino acids, and other compounds that may help with fat breakdown, but their efficacy varies.

In the UK, gastric sleeve surgery is available through the National Health Service (NHS) for patients who meet specific criteria, such as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 40 or over 35 with obesity-related health conditions. Private options are also available, and the cost typically ranges from £8,000 to £12,000.

Sleeve gastrectomy is a weight-loss surgery that involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving a tube-like sleeve. This limits food intake and promotes hormonal changes that support weight loss. It’s a permanent procedure and is one of the most commonly performed bariatric surgeries worldwide.

A doctor for gastric issues is typically a gastroenterologist, a specialist in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the digestive system. Gastroenterologists treat conditions such as acid reflux, gastritis, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

A gastro appointment is a consultation with a gastroenterologist. During this visit, the doctor assesses symptoms like stomach pain, acid reflux, or changes in bowel habits. The appointment might involve a physical exam, blood tests, or diagnostic procedures like an endoscopy or colonoscopy to identify the issue.

A doctor for gastric issues is typically a gastroenterologist, a specialist in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the digestive system. Gastroenterologists treat conditions such as acid reflux, gastritis, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

The cost of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery varies based on location, healthcare provider, and whether the patient has insurance coverage. In the U.S., the cost ranges from $20,000 to $30,000, depending on the hospital and specific circumstances. In countries with public healthcare systems, such as the UK or Canada, the surgery may be covered, though waiting times could be long. Many insurance companies in the U.S. cover bariatric surgery if it’s deemed medically necessary, but patients must meet specific... +More

Gastric RNY, or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, remains one of the most effective surgical options for treating obesity. By reducing the size of the stomach and bypassing a portion of the intestines, patients experience a significant reduction in hunger and an inability to eat large meals. Gastric RNY can lead to rapid weight loss and improvement or resolution of obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and hypertension.

Bariatric refers to the branch of medicine that deals with the causes, prevention, and treatment of obesity. Bariatric surgery includes weight-loss procedures like gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and lap band surgery, which help patients lose significant amounts of weight and improve obesity-related health conditions.

Mild erythematous refers to slight redness or inflammation, often found during endoscopic exams. In the stomach or intestines, it can indicate irritation or early stages of inflammation caused by infections, acid reflux, or mild gastritis.

Before undergoing bariatric surgery like RNY, patients are required to follow a pre-op diet to reduce liver size and fat around the stomach. This makes the surgery safer and easier for the surgeon to perform. The pre-op diet typically consists of high-protein, low-carbohydrate shakes, and liquids for 1-2 weeks before surgery. It’s an important step in preparing the body for surgery and ensuring optimal recovery post-op.

The Allurion Balloon is not yet widely available on the NHS, though some private clinics in the UK offer it. This non-invasive procedure is an attractive option for individuals seeking a temporary weight-loss solution without the risks associated with surgery.

Sleeve bariatric surgery, also known as Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG), is a restrictive procedure where 80% of the stomach is removed. This reduces stomach capacity, limiting food intake and helping with significant weight loss. It is one of the most popular forms of bariatric surgery due to its effectiveness and relatively lower risk compared to bypass surgeries.

The long-term effects of sleeve gastrectomy include sustained weight loss, improvement or resolution of obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. However, patients may also experience long-term nutritional deficiencies, requiring them to take supplements like vitamin B12, calcium, and iron. Regular follow-up with healthcare providers is essential to monitor these effects.

The gastric balloon pill is a new, non-invasive weight-loss method where a deflated balloon is swallowed in pill form and then inflated in the stomach. Known as the Allurion Balloon, this method reduces the amount of food the stomach can hold, promoting weight loss without surgery.