Bariatric Surgery Center at Highland Hospital

Obesity-related Health Conditions

Obesity-related health conditions reduce life expectancy. Here are some of the more common conditions. If you would like more information, please speak with your physician.

 

• Type 2 Diabetes. People who are obese become resistant to insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels. They end up with high blood sugar, which causes Type 2 diabetes.  More information about Type 2 diabetes
  
  
• High blood pressure / Heart disease.The heart doesn't work right when the body is carrying around excess weight. So the obese person usually gets hypertension (high blood pressure), which leads to strokes and damages the heart and kidneys. More information about lowering your high blood pressure
  
  
• Osteoarthritis of weight-bearing joints. Additional weight placed on joints--especially knees and hips--causes rapid wear and tear, along with pain and inflammation. Similarly, the strain on bones and muscles in the back leads to disk problems, pain, and decreased mobility. More information on osteoarthritis
  
  
• Sleep apnea / Respiratory problems. Fat deposits in the tongue and neck can block air passages, especially in patients who sleep on their backs. This causes them to lose sleep and results in daytime drowsiness and headaches. More information about sleep apnea
  
  
• Gastroesophageal reflux  disease (Hiatal hernia and heartburn). Excess weight weakens and overloads the valve at the top of the stomach, which then allows stomach acid to escape into the esophagus. This is called gastroesophageal reflux, and "heartburn" and acid indigestion are common symptoms. Approximately 10-15% of patients with even mild heartburn develop Barrett's esophagus, which is a pre-malignant change in the lining membrane and a cause of esophageal cancer. More information on gastroesphageal reflux disease (hiatal hernia / heartburn)
  
  
• Depression. People who are obese must deal with constant, depressing emotional challenges: failed diets, disapproval from family and friends, remarks from strangers. Plus, they often experience discrimination and cannot fit comfortably in public places. More information about depression
  
  
• Infertility. Obesity wreaks havoc with male and female hormones, disrupting normal cycles and function, and leading to difficulty or inability to conceive.  More information about infertility
  
  
• Urinary stress incontinence. A large, heavy abdomen relaxes pelvic muscles, compounding the effects of childbirth. This weakens the valve on the urinary bladder allowing leakage when coughing, sneezing, or laughing. More information about urinary stress incontinence
  
  
• Menstrual irregularities. Morbidly obese individuals often experience menstrual disruptions, such as irregular or absent periods and increased pain during the cycle. More information about menstrual irregularities