The intragastric balloon is a non-surgical weight-loss method where a balloon is inserted into the stomach to reduce its capacity temporarily. While it can be an effective weight-loss tool, patients may experience side effects like nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, acid reflux, and, in rare cases, balloon deflation or migration. Most side effects occur in the first few days after the procedure and can be managed with medication.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and gastritis are two distinct conditions, though both cause abdominal discomfort. IBS is a chronic condition affecting the large intestine, while gastritis involves inflammation of the stomach lining. Both can be triggered by stress, poor diet, or infections, and treatment usually involves dietary adjustments and medications to manage symptoms.

A gastric balloon is a non-surgical weight-loss option where a silicone balloon is inserted into the stomach and inflated. It takes up space, helping patients feel fuller sooner and eat less. The balloon is temporary and is removed after 6-12 months, during which patients must follow a strict diet and exercise regimen to ensure lasting weight loss.

Common VSG side effects include nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, and constipation due to the smaller stomach size. Nutrient deficiencies, like vitamin B12 and iron, may occur if patients don't follow their prescribed supplements. Long-term complications can include weight regain or the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Roux-en-Y (RNY) gastric bypass is a type of weight-loss surgery in which the stomach is divided into a small upper pouch and a larger lower "remnant" portion. The small intestine is rearranged to connect to both. This reduces the stomach's capacity and alters how the body absorbs calories and nutrients, making it one of the most effective bariatric surgeries for long-term weight loss. Patients can expect significant weight loss, but the procedure is more complex than other forms of bariatric surgery, requiring... +More

When the stomach is taken out through a procedure like gastrectomy, the patient must adapt to a new lifestyle that involves eating smaller, more frequent meals and relying on supplements for essential nutrients. This surgery is performed to treat conditions like stomach cancer, ulcers, or severe obesity.

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

A tummy specialist is a colloquial term for a gastroenterologist, a doctor specializing in diseases affecting the digestive system. Patients with stomach pain, bloating, or gastrointestinal issues like ulcers or acid reflux often seek their expertise for diagnosis and treatment.

The cost of Roux-en-Y (RNY) gastric bypass surgery varies widely depending on the country, hospital, and insurance coverage. In the U.S., it typically ranges between $20,000 and $30,000. In the UK, the procedure may be covered by the NHS if the patient meets specific criteria, or it can be done privately for £8,000 to £15,000.

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is one of the most common bariatric surgeries, combining restrictive and malabsorptive techniques. It helps patients lose weight by creating a small stomach pouch and bypassing part of the small intestine, reducing calorie absorption. It’s highly effective but requires lifelong dietary changes and nutritional supplementation.

Bariatric surgery refers to procedures that help with weight loss by altering the digestive system. This includes operations like gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and adjustable gastric banding. Bariatric surgery is often recommended for individuals with a BMI over 40 or a BMI over 35 with obesity-related health conditions.

A gastric infection often results from bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), which causes inflammation in the stomach lining. This infection is a major cause of ulcers and, in some cases, can lead to stomach cancer. Treatment involves antibiotics to eradicate the bacteria, along with acid-reducing medications.

The gastric sleeve diet is crucial for recovery after sleeve gastrectomy and long-term weight loss success. Initially, the diet consists of liquids, gradually progressing to pureed foods, then soft foods, and finally solid foods. High-protein, low-carbohydrate meals are recommended to ensure proper nutrition and prevent weight regain.

A mini gastric bypass is a simpler version of the traditional RNY gastric bypass. It involves creating a small stomach pouch and bypassing a section of the small intestine. This procedure is less invasive and typically quicker to perform, with fewer complications. It offers similar weight-loss results to the traditional bypass but may result in higher rates of bile reflux. It is becoming a popular choice for those looking for effective weight-loss surgery with a shorter recovery time.

Common gastritis symptoms include stomach pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. Chronic gastritis may cause long-term discomfort, while acute cases can result in sharp pain. Treatment often involves antacids, antibiotics (for bacterial infections), and lifestyle modifications like dietary changes.

Atrophic gastritis is a chronic condition where the stomach lining thins and loses its ability to produce stomach acid and digestive enzymes. This condition can be caused by long-term H. pylori infection or autoimmune diseases and may increase the risk of stomach cancer. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause and managing symptoms.

Abdominal surgery covers a wide range of procedures, from bariatric surgeries to hernia repairs and cancer resections. Recovery time and hospital stay depend on the type of surgery performed, with some requiring only a few days in the hospital, while others may need extended stays for observation and healing.

The cost of gastric band surgery in the UK ranges from £1,450 to £8,000 at private clinics. The NHS may cover the surgery for patients who meet specific health criteria, such as a BMI over 40 or a BMI over 35 with obesity-related health conditions.

Wegovy is available through the NHS for patients meeting specific criteria. To qualify, individuals generally need to have a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition such as diabetes or hypertension. Wegovy is a relatively new option and is prescribed under careful medical supervision.

A total gastrectomy is a surgical procedure where the entire stomach is removed, usually due to stomach cancer or severe damage. The esophagus is then directly connected to the small intestine. This life-altering surgery requires patients to follow strict dietary guidelines, including smaller, more frequent meals, and take supplements to ensure proper nutrition.

A gastric infection often results from bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), which causes inflammation in the stomach lining. This infection is a major cause of ulcers and, in some cases, can lead to stomach cancer. Treatment involves antibiotics to eradicate the bacteria, along with acid-reducing medications.

After sleeve gastrectomy, patients follow a specific diet to help the stomach heal and ensure success in weight loss. The diet starts with liquids, followed by pureed foods, and eventually soft foods before transitioning to solid foods. High-protein, low-fat, and low-sugar meals are critical, along with small, frequent portions.

In the UK, gastroenterology is a well-established medical field. The NHS provides access to gastroenterologists through referrals, though wait times can be significant depending on the region. Private gastroenterology services are available for those seeking faster treatment. The role of a gastroenterologist in the UK is crucial for managing digestive disorders and bariatric surgery outcomes, as well as performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures such as endoscopies and colonoscopies.

After sleeve gastrectomy, patients follow a specific diet to help the stomach heal and ensure success in weight loss. The diet starts with liquids, followed by pureed foods, and eventually soft foods before transitioning to solid foods. High-protein, low-fat, and low-sugar meals are critical, along with small, frequent portions.