Tag: obesity

Thyroid Disease: What it is & How to Prevent it

Posted on November 12, 2024

A female doctor wearing a mask examines the throat of a young woman for thyroid disease at a clinic.

 

A female doctor wearing a mask examines the throat of a young woman for thyroid disease at a clinic.

The thyroid is a gland that regulates metabolism and maintains energy levels and heart rate. Because of all the critical body functions it plays a role in, thyroid disease can affect your health in various ways. Thyroid conditions are common, affecting about 20 million Americans. At BMI, we have extensive experience treating these disorders, so we have compiled some information to help you manage them. 

What is Thyroid Disease?

Thyroid disease is an umbrella term for several disorders that affect the thyroid gland and related bodily functions. These include: 

  • Hyperthyroidism – The thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. 
  • Hypothyroidism –  The thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone. 
  • Goiter – An enlargement of the thyroid gland, resulting in swelling of the neck.
  • Thyroid Nodules – Non-cancerous, asymptomatic lumps in the thyroid gland.
  • Thyroid Cancer – A type of cancer involving malignant growth in the thyroid.

Regardless of which condition you have, it is critical to consult an endocrine specialist, like those at BMI, to find the best possible treatment.

Symptoms of Thyroid Disease

Because thyroid disease takes many forms, symptoms can vary depending on the condition. Common symptoms of thyroid issues include: 

  • Weight gain
  • Sleep issues
  • Irregular heart rate
  • Appetite changes
  • Mood changes
  • Hair loss
  • Heat or cold intolerance

Even if symptoms are mild, they can still impact your quality of life. If they are particularly disruptive to your daily routine, consult with one of BMI’s endocrine specialists, who can help you effectively treat them.

Causes of Thyroid Disease

There are many potential causes of thyroid disease because it takes many different forms. Common causes include: 

  • Autoimmune disorders, like Graves’ disease
  • Inflammation of the thyroid gland
  • Surgical removal of the thyroid gland
  • Certain medications, such as lithium 
  • Iodine and other nutrient deficiencies
  • Lifestyle causes like stress or lack of exercise
  • Genetics, as thyroid conditions can be hereditary
  • Gender, as thyroid conditions are more common in women

Regardless of the cause, your physician can assess your personal risk factors and develop a custom treatment plan to address your specific thyroid condition. 

How to Prevent Thyroid Disease

While many thyroid conditions are genetics and not preventable, some can be prevented through:

  • A healthy diet
  • Regular exercise
  • Reducing stress
  • Getting enough sleep
  • Quitting smoking, if you do 

By following these steps, you can potentially prevent various types of thyroid disease. 

How We Diagnose Thyroid Disease

At BMI, we take a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid conditions. Below is our process.

Medical History

Certain thyroid conditions are hereditary, so we look at your family medical history to determine if this may be the case.

Physical Exam

Your doctor gently feels your neck for swelling or other signs of inflammation that come with thyroid conditions.

Imaging

We use ultrasound and nuclear medicine to look for thyroid nodules, goiters, or other signs of thyroid conditions.

Blood Test

A blood test that measures TSH levels can be used to diagnose both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.

How to Treat Thyroid Disease

While you can manage some symptoms of thyroid disease at home, it is best to consult an endocrine specialist who can create a treatment plan, which may include: 

Radioactive Iodine Therapy

Radioactive iodine therapy works by delivering radiation to the thyroid gland, which prevents it from producing high levels of thyroid hormone. This treatment can be administered orally as a liquid or capsule or injected into a vein. It’s typically a one-time treatment performed at an outpatient facility.

Medication 

Medications, including anti-thyroid drugs like methimazole and propylthiouracil, can prevent the thyroid from producing too many hormones. Meanwhile, beta-blockers can help manage symptoms like increased heart rates. Your physician can recommend which type of medication is right for you and your condition.

Surgery

For thyroid conditions that cannot be controlled with medication, surgery may be required. Depending on the condition being treated, all or part of the thyroid gland may be removed. Consulting with a surgeon, like those at BMI, can help you determine if this would be an appropriate treatment for your condition.

Manage Your Thyroid Disease With BMI

Symptoms of thyroid disease can affect your daily routine. With effective treatment from BMI, you can get back to normal faster. Our team specializes in endocrine disorders, so we can create a custom treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Find Effective Thyroid Disease Treatment at BMI 

If you have thyroid disease, contact BMI at (205) 858-1211. Our team can create a treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your condition and allows you to continue your daily activities. Schedule an appointment today to get started! 

Understanding Acid Reflux: Symptoms & Solutions

Posted on October 30, 2024

A man in a purple shirt holding his stomach experiencing acid reflux after eating spicy takeout food on his grey couch.

A man in a purple shirt holding his stomach experiencing acid reflux after eating spicy takeout food on his grey couch.

While it’s normal to have heartburn after a heavy meal, frequently experiencing it can be a sign of acid reflux. This common condition affects about 20% of Americans. At BMI, we have experience treating this gastrointestinal condition and others, so we’ve compiled some information to help you better manage it. 

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a chronic condition caused by the lower esophageal sphincter not closing properly, allowing stomach acid to leak or reflux into the esophagus. When stomach acid touches the lining of the esophagus, it causes a burning sensation in the chest or throat called heartburn. Heartburn that occurs more than twice a week is a possible sign of acid reflux.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux

Like any other gastrointestinal health issue, recognizing the signs of acid reflux and seeking timely treatment is crucial in managing it. Common symptoms include: 

  • Frequent heartburn
  • Acid regurgitation
  • Chest pains
  • Hoarse voice
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Tightness in the throat
  • Dry cough
  • Bad breath

Even if your symptoms are mild, they may still impact your quality of life and eating habits. If your symptoms are particularly disruptive to your daily routine, schedule an appointment with one of BMI’s gastrointestinal specialists, who can help you effectively treat them.

Causes of Acid Reflux

While acid reflux is commonly caused by consuming certain foods and beverages, other risk factors for developing this condition include: 

  • Hiatal Hernia
  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy
  • Smoking

Regardless of the cause, your physician will assess your condition to develop a custom treatment plan to address your acid reflux. To learn about your personal risk factors, contact BMI for a consultation. 

How to Prevent Acid Reflux

Like any chronic condition, acid reflux can be painful and disruptive to your lifestyle. Fortunately, it is easily preventable. Below are some simple ways you can prevent this condition.

  • Eat smaller meals at a slower pace
  • Avoid lying down after eating
  • Sleep on an incline
  • If you smoke, try quitting
  • Lose weight if you are overweight or obese
  • Avoid trigger foods and beverages, including:
    • Fatty or fried foods
    • Acidic foods or beverages
    • Caffeine
    • Alcohol

By following these steps, you can prevent acid reflux. For more advice, schedule a consultation with one of our specialists. 

How We Diagnose Acid Reflux

At BMI, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating acid reflux. Below is our process.

Medical History

As acid reflux can be hereditary. We look at your family medical history to determine if this might be the case in your situation.

Proton Pump Inhibitor

We prescribe a proton pump inhibitor to see how you respond to this medication before moving on to more intensive treatments. 

Barium Swallow Radiograph

We use an X-ray to spot abnormalities like hiatal hernias and severe inflammation of the esophagus, which may contribute to acid reflux. 

Endoscopy

An endoscopy can identify inflammation, acid damage, ulcers, and other signs of acid reflux, making it an effective method of diagnosis.

How to Treat Acid Reflux

While you can manage mild heartburn at home, it is best to consult with a gastrointestinal specialist, like those at BMI, to treat acid reflux. They can assess the underlying cause of your condition to develop a treatment plan, which may include: 

Diet

Since acid reflux is triggered by certain foods and beverages, avoiding them may help you to better manage your condition. Keep a food diary to discover what your specific symptom triggers are in order to avoid them. Most commonly, it is triggered by fatty or acidic foods, caffeine, and alcohol. 

Medication 

Medications, including antacids, foaming agents, H2 receptor blockers, and proton pump inhibitors, can help manage your symptoms. For milder cases, over-the-counter medication is sufficient, but more severe cases may require prescription medications. Your physician can recommend which is right for you.

Surgery

In patients that have reflux not controlled with medication, surgery may be required once all other non-surgical treatment options have been exhausted. Consulting with a gastrointestinal surgeon, like those at BMI, can help you determine if this is the case based on your condition. 

Manage Your Acid Reflux With BMI

If you’re experiencing heartburn that won’t subside with diet and lifestyle changes, contact BMI at (205) 858-1211. Our team can help you create a treatment plan that will address the root cause of your condition and allow you to continue your regular activities without discomfort. To get started, schedule an appointment today. 

Effective Acid Reflux Treatment at BMI 

Acid reflux symptoms can affect your daily routine and personal comfort. Get back to normal with effective treatment from BMI. Specializing in managing gastrointestinal conditions, we can create a treatment plan customized to your needs. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us at (205) 858-1211. 

Losing the Weight & Losing the Stigma: A Weight Loss Revolution

Posted on July 1, 2024

A white scale and a yellow measuring tape on a plain background.

A white scale and a yellow measuring tape on a plain background.

Weight is a topic that is still heavily stigmatized in modern society. As a result, many people are not seeking the treatment they need for obesity and other health conditions. It is estimated that 53% of people who are overweight have reported that their own physicians have made inappropriate comments about their weight. 

At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, our team specializes in weight loss, so we know how to handle conversations about weight with compassion and empathy. We understand our patients have many physical and emotional needs, so we do all we can to meet them, including reducing the stigma related to weight.

What is Weight-Related Stigma?

Weight stigma consists of discriminatory attitudes and actions taken towards individuals due to their weight. As a result, individuals who face weight stigma have lower self-esteem and confidence, which can lead to mental health issues like depression. It stems from societal beliefs that perceive those who are overweight as lacking willpower, having poor moral character, and other negative qualities. 

The Impact of Weight-Related Stigma on Weight Loss

While some argue stigmatization will motivate individuals to lose weight, the reality is exactly the opposite. Obesity affects people from all walks of life. These individuals are often motivated to improve their health and appearance through weight loss. However, they find the stigma around weight limits them. They fear judgment from friends, family, and even their own physicians, so they do not seek the care needed.

How to Reduce Weight-Related Stigma in Healthcare Settings

Physicians and surgeons, like those at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, hold a great deal of responsibility in reducing the stigma around weight. In order to best serve our patients, we take these steps to reduce weight stigma:

1. Education

At Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, our team participates in ongoing education to learn the best ways to handle various weight loss procedures and topics. As a result, we’ve been able to improve patient care by providing a variety of options for weight loss while discussing their weight in a nonjudgmental manner. 

As part of our commitment to reducing weight stigma in healthcare, we offer seminars to other providers to help them better understand the needs of patients seeking treatment for weight-related concerns. We partner with St. Vincent’s Hospital in Birmingham, AL, to provide this programming to the community. 

Along with educating other healthcare providers, we provide informative resources like online nutrition classes and support groups to our patients. By learning all they can about weight-related issues, patients can reduce the stigma around this topic by having conversations about it from a well-informed perspective. 

2. Using Person-First Language

In our communications with patients, we use person-first language to reduce stigma. For example, we refer to patients who are obese as “people with obesity” rather than “obese people.” This allows patients to feel like their condition is being acknowledged by their doctor while not letting it define them as a person. 

3. Customized Care

Understanding that each patient is unique, we customize their care to meet their needs. Each treatment starts with an initial consultation where we discuss the patient’s desired outcome and the best way to reach it. Then, we create a care plan based on this conversation. We may use a variety of non-surgical and surgical methods to help them achieve their goals. 

Lose Weight Without the Stigma of BMI

Don’t let stigma hold you back from losing weight. Working with a compassionate healthcare team specializing in weight loss, like the one at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery, can help you achieve your goals faster and without judgment. To get started on your weight loss journey, contact us at (205) 858-1211.

Achieve Stigma-Free Weight Loss at BMI

Regardless of your weight loss goals, you can achieve them without judgment or stigma at Birmingham Minimally Invasive Surgery. If you have specific concerns or questions about our weight loss procedures, contact us for personalized support at (205) 858-1211.

National Heart Month: Preventing Obesity & Heart Disease

Posted on January 15, 2023

Red heart shaped hand exercise ball with doctor physician's stethoscope on white background.

Red heart shaped hand exercise ball with doctor physician's stethoscope on white background.

There’s no mistaking that obesity is on the rise in America. Data shows that 41.9% of Americans are obese. Not only can obesity be uncomfortable and diminish one’s quality of life, but it can also contribute to other health conditions, like heart disease. In fact, if you’re obese, you’re over 20% more likely to develop heart disease.

In honor of National Heart Month, the team at BMI Surgery is discussing the connection between obesity and heart health, specifically the higher risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. Combat obesity and heart disease with the knowledge of how to prevent both. Keep on reading to learn more!

How Can Obesity Contribute to Heart Disease?

Heart disease is a general term for various heart conditions. When fat cells enlarge, chronic inflammation can occur by way of your hormones. Chronic inflammation can disrupt your insulin levels, which means your body may have trouble regulating blood sugar. The presence of long-term insulin resistance is called metabolic syndrome, which can make you much more likely to develop certain health conditions.

While high blood pressure isn’t a heart disease, it can lead to heart diseases like heart failure, heart attack, and arrhythmia. High blood pressure requires the heart to work harder to circulate blood to the rest of the body, which causes various heart problems, like heart failure, Peripheral artery disease (PAD), and coronary artery disease. In other cases, excess fat can build up in the arteries that carry blood to your heart. If these pathways are blocked, a heart attack or other heart ailments can occur.

Additionally, the extra work can cause the heart to enlarge, which can lead to heart failure. Obese people may experience heart arrhythmias (heart beats too fast or too slow) more frequently. This occurs when the left ventricle becomes too large with the extra effort required with excess body fat.

How Can I Prevent Obesity & Heart Disease?

The best measures to prevent obesity and heart disease are proper exercise and nutrition. If you have a family history of heart disease, your lifestyle and habits are especially important. We recommend speaking with your doctor about nutritional and exercise plans customized for your current weight.

If you’re not getting enough sleep, you may be raising your chances of developing obesity and heart disease. In fact, if you sleep fewer than six hours a night, you have a 20% higher risk of a heart attack. When you sleep, your heart rate lowers, and you’re less likely to crave salty and sweet foods that aren’t heart-healthy. To prevent heart disease and obesity, we advise seven to nine hours of sleep per night.

Can Weight Loss Surgery Treat Obesity?

Weight loss surgery can treat obesity! Also called bariatric surgery, weight loss surgery can reduce your stomach size to decrease food consumption and absorption. Weight loss surgery may be right for you if other weight loss methods haven’t been successful, like diet or exercise.

There are various weight loss surgeries available, such as laparoscopic gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and LAP-BAND®. Each surgery is a little different, but each can effectively treat obesity. After weight loss surgery, you’ll still need to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Celebrate National Heart Month & Reduce Your Risk

If you’re suffering from obesity, or know someone who is, we encourage you to seek treatment. A weight loss specialist can provide options for surgery, support groups, nutritional plans, and more. At BMI Surgery, we have been transforming bodies since 2002 and specialize in weight loss solutions that last for decades to come. Don’t let obesity affect your overall health and well-being– contact the experts today!

Begin Your Journey Towards a Healthier, Happier Life This February

Reduce your risk of heart disease this February! Our team at BMI Surgery can help you lose weight and offer expert advice to help you maintain your results! Call us at (205) 850-1973 or contact us online to transform your body today!

Obesity 101: Common Causes, Signs, & Symptoms

Posted on January 15, 2023

A female dietitian holding a diet plan during a consultation with a patient in the office.

A female dietitian holding a diet plan during a consultation with a patient in the office.

Over 40% of Americans are obese. While many of us know what obesity is, you may not know how dangerous it can be for one’s health. Those suffering from obesity are often at higher risk for health conditions such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.

While obesity rates are rising in America, this condition is preventable. The experts at BMI Surgery discuss obesity’s causes, signs, and symptoms so that you can educate yourself and those around you about the dangers of obesity. If you are struggling with obesity, there are treatments available–don’t hesitate to reach out to weight loss specialists.

What Is Obesity?

Obesity is characterized by excess body fat relative to one’s weight and is measured with the BMI (body mass index) scale. Obesity is often progressive and can change the way your body functions. Doctors consider anyone with a BMI greater than 30 as obese. However, there are three classes of obesity, each becoming more serious the higher the class.

The three types of obesity are broken into the first, second, and third classes. The following measurements are standards for doctors across America.

  • Class I obesity: BMI 30 to <35 kg/m².
  • Class II obesity: BMI 35 to <40 kg/m².
  • Class III obesity: BMI 40+ kg/m².

While often diminishing quality of life, obesity can impact one’s overall health. Obesity has been linked to Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, sleep apnea, metabolic syndrome, osteoarthritis, kidney disease, pregnancy problems, and certain types of cancer.

What Causes Obesity?

On the surface, obesity is caused by eating more calories consumed than burned. But every case of obesity is different, and there are often other factors that cause obesity. For example, certain medications or hormonal changes can increase your appetite and lead you to become obese. Additionally, certain genetic mutations cause hereditary obesity.

If you’re depressed, anxious, or stressed, you may eat more than your body can consume to cope with challenging emotions and feelings. Fast food and convenience foods are at our fingertips, and these foods often increase the process of gaining excess body fat. Additionally, living a very sedentary lifestyle while over-consuming food can quickly lead to obesity.

What Are the Symptoms of Obesity?

Beyond gaining weight, there are a few other symptoms of obesity you may notice. Some of these signs include:

  • Back pain
  • Joint pain
  • Insomnia
  • Excessive sweating
  • Fatigue
  • Depression
  • Shortness of breath

If you notice you or a loved one developing symptoms of obesity, don’t hesitate to seek medical care. You may feel nervous about finding treatment, but a doctor can provide remedies to improve your quality of life and health.

What Are Treatment Options for Obesity?

There are many treatments available for obesity. At BMI Surgery, our doctors recommend losing a minimum of 5% to 10% of your total weight. This percentage may not seem like much, but even the most minor weight loss can significantly reduce your risk of developing health problems. Your weight loss specialist will recommend dietary treatments, exercise regimens, and other lifestyle changes.

Likewise, your doctor may prescribe certain medications that can decrease your appetite. Medication isn’t a long-term treatment but may be beneficial in the beginning. Similarly, another treatment option for obesity is weight loss surgery.

Is Weight Loss Surgery an Effective Treatment for Obesity?

Yes! Weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, reduces stomach capacity to lower food intake. Weight loss surgery isn’t performed unless other treatment methods haven’t worked, like diet or exercise changes, and your obesity must be impacting your health.

Common weight loss procedures include:

  • Sleeve gastrectomy
  • Laparoscopic gastric bypass
  • LAP-BAND®
  • Orbera® gastric balloon
  • Revisional weight loss surgery

Begin Your Journey Towards a Happier & Healthier Life

Obesity can cause various health issues that may impact your well-being for years to come. Luckily, with some help from experts, you can find effective ways to treat obesity. While it may seem overwhelming to seek treatment, don’t hesitate to contact a doctor for the betterment of your physical and mental health.

If you’re interested in weight loss surgery or know of a loved one who may benefit, a Board-certified weight loss surgeon can help you lead a healthier, happier life. At BMI Surgery, we offer various types of weight loss surgery, support groups, nutritional and exercise advice, preparation class, and more.

Discover Weight Loss Surgery Options at BMI Surgery

Our surgeon, Dr. Long, is board-certified and has successfully performed weight loss surgeries for 20 years. Don’t wait to become the happiest, healthiest version of yourself—contact BMI Surgery today. To schedule an appointment or discuss your weight loss journey, call 205-850-1973 or contact us online.