Weight loss pills include prescription medications like Orlistat (which blocks fat absorption) and over-the-counter supplements marketed to boost metabolism or suppress appetite. While some medications are effective when used correctly, they must be combined with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise for long-term success.

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.

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).

Gastritis can sometimes cause referred pain that radiates to the back, although this is not a common symptom. If a patient experiences back pain along with gastritis symptoms like nausea, bloating, or indigestion, it could indicate a more severe condition or complications such as ulcers.

Sleeve banding combines two bariatric procedures: the gastric sleeve and an adjustable gastric band. It is a less common technique used to enhance the weight-loss results of the sleeve by adding additional restriction through the band. However, complications from the band have made it less favorable in recent years.

A non-surgical sleeve refers to procedures that mimic the effects of sleeve gastrectomy but without surgery. One such method is the Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG), which reduces stomach size using sutures inserted through an endoscope. This approach is less invasive, has a faster recovery time, and is typically used for patients who do not qualify for surgical interventions.

Gastric band surgery involves placing an adjustable band around the upper portion of the stomach, limiting food intake and promoting weight loss. This procedure is reversible and less invasive than other bariatric surgeries. It’s available privately and occasionally through the NHS for eligible patients.

Gastric sleeve results are typically impressive, with patients losing 50-60% of their excess body weight within the first year. The surgery also leads to improvements in obesity-related conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. Long-term success depends on the patient’s ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle post-surgery.

After undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery (RNY), the diet is critical for long-term success and recovery. Immediately after surgery, patients are required to follow a liquid diet to allow their stomachs to heal. Over time, they transition from liquids to soft foods, and eventually solid foods. This post-op diet is high in protein to support muscle retention and healing, low in fats and sugars, and carefully portioned to avoid stretching the stomach pouch. Lifelong dietary changes are necessary to avoid... +More

Roux-en-Y bypass is another term for the RNY procedure. This surgery helps patients lose weight by creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine, bypassing a portion of the digestive tract. The result is a reduced ability to absorb calories and nutrients. Patients who undergo RNY experience rapid weight loss, but it also requires them to make permanent changes to their diet and lifestyle to avoid complications like dumping syndrome, where food moves too quickly from the... +More

RNY reversal is the process of undoing the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Although rare, reversals are sometimes necessary due to complications such as malnutrition, severe dumping syndrome, or other medical issues.

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.

Diarrhoea associated with gastritis can occur due to inflammation in the stomach affecting the intestines. This symptom often accompanies nausea, bloating, and abdominal pain. Managing diarrhea involves treating the underlying gastritis, typically with acid-reducing medications and dietary adjustments.

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.

For those struggling to lose weight, there are many avenues for assistance, including weight-loss centers, bariatric surgery, medication, and lifestyle counseling. Professional help often involves personalized diet and exercise plans, behavioral therapy, and medical treatments like appetite suppressants or surgery for those with severe obesity.

After lap band surgery, patients must follow a specific diet to maximize the success of the procedure and avoid complications. Immediately post-surgery, a liquid diet is followed by a progression to soft foods and, eventually, solid foods. The diet must be high in protein and low in sugar, with small, frequent meals to avoid overfilling the stomach pouch created by the band.

In the UK, slimming tablets are commonly prescribed or available over the counter to aid weight loss. Medications like Orlistat help block the absorption of fat, while appetite suppressants target hunger. These medications are often combined with lifestyle changes for better long-term results.

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.

Complications from Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy can include acid reflux, nausea, vomiting, dehydration, and nutrient deficiencies (especially in iron, calcium, and vitamin B12). In rare cases, more severe complications like leaks from the staple line, infection, or blood clots may occur. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers help manage these risks.

Gastric banding is a type of bariatric surgery in which an adjustable band is placed around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch that limits food intake. It is one of the least invasive forms of weight-loss surgery but has fallen out of favor due to its lower success rates compared to other procedures like the sleeve gastrectomy or Roux-en-Y bypass. The band can be adjusted or removed, making it more flexible than other surgeries.

The Orbera gastric balloon is a non-surgical, temporary weight-loss device placed in the stomach to reduce food intake. The balloon is inflated and left in place for six months. During that time, patients follow a strict diet and exercise regimen to lose weight. It’s a popular choice for patients who want to avoid invasive surgery.

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.

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 (semaglutide) is a medication that helps with weight loss by mimicking a hormone that regulates appetite. It is prescribed to individuals with obesity or those with weight-related health problems. In the UK, Wegovy has been approved for NHS use for patients who meet certain criteria, providing a non-surgical option for those seeking medical weight-loss assistance.