Nicholson Clinic

Obesity is often a family disease as lack of mobility and the many medical conditions associated with carrying extra weight can impact everyone in a household. So when a person decides to undergo weight loss surgery, the entire family is also included in that journey as well. It’s important to have much support around you as possible as you go through this experience, so involving your family is crucial. So how do you prepare your family for your weight loss surgery?                         Bring along one or two family members - preferably those who will be caring for you most when you come home - to your doctor appointments. It's always good to have a second set of ears so you can gather all the information that the doctor gives you and make sure to ask any questions. In fact, family members are often far better at thinking of questions than you may be in that moment.                         Provide your family members with literature and/or websites where they can do t

Acid reflux is a common complaint for many people, especially those who are suffering from obesity. Characterized by a burning sensation in the esophagus and chest known as heartburn, a sour stomach, and even vomiting, acid reflux can be very uncomfortable and when left untreated can cause serious complications including damage to the esophagus and the development of ulcers. How does acid reflux happen? When the valve between the esophagus and the stomach doesn’t close completely as it should, acid that typically resides in the stomach to break down our food, comes back up through the esophagus. This causes the feeling of burning. And when acid reflux occurs more than twice week this is a condition that is referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. Experts believe that obesity is linked to acid reflux and GERD because a larger belly worsens symptoms. Luckily, lifestyle changes can dramatically improve symptoms of acid reflux and GERD. What can be done?