Understanding Bariatric Surgery and How One Local Resident Overcame Her Weight Struggle

Nov 14, 2023 at 09:15 am by WGNS News



Today on WGNS, we tackled issues with weight - this includes weight gain, weight loss and what to do if you're facing an extreme problem with obesity. 

Our guest on the WGNS Action Line with host Scott Walker was Patient Advocate Leteta Toney, who helps clients better understand the different steps in preparing for bariatric surgery and what life looks like afterwards.

Toney, who was once a patient in the bariatric department, now works with the entire team at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford to help future patients understand their insurance coverage and if they are a good candidate for the same procedure she underwent about two years ago.

Below are a few items that those with weight problems may find themselves struggling with. The list is from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Problems that often arise with obesity include:

  • Diabetes
  • High Blood Pressure 
  • Sleep Apnea 
  • Decreased Quality of Life
  • Stroke 
  • Metabolic Syndrome 
  • Breathing Problems 
  • Heart Disease 
  • Some Cancers 
  • Gout 
  • Kidney Problems 
  • Decreased Sexual Function 
  • Mental Health Problems 
  • High Pregnancy Risk  
  • Fertility Issues  
  • Possible Gallbladder and Pancreas Diseases 
  • Sleep Apnea 
  • Decreased Quality of Life