About

Gastric balloon placement involves inserting a saline-filled silicone balloon into the stomach to assist with weight loss by reducing food intake and promoting a feeling of fullness.

Signs & Symptoms

Reasons for considering gastric balloons include being overweight, weight-related health issues, fatigue, and a sedentary lifestyle, with a BMI over 30.

Causes

Factors contributing to the need for gastric balloons include difficulty losing weight, susceptibility to illness, gastroesophageal reflux disease, high cholesterol, heart diseases, and high blood pressure.

When to seek medical attention?

Consider opting for an intragastric balloon if your BMI falls between 30 and 40, willingness to commit to a healthy lifestyle, regular medical follow-ups, behavioral therapy, and no history of stomach or esophageal surgery. A screening process will help determine if this procedure is appropriate for you.

Risk Factors

Potential risks post-gastric balloon treatment include excessive bleeding, breathing problems, blood clots, and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Diagnostic & Test

Diagnostic tests such as chest X-rays, electrocardiograms, blood tests, and cardiac echoes may be conducted.

Treatment Procedure

The gastric balloon procedure involves inserting a grapefruit-sized balloon into the stomach through the mouth with an endoscope, filling it with saline to reduce stomach capacity. Sedation is provided, and patients can typically return home the same day. After six months, the balloon is removed, with ongoing support from a healthcare team focusing on nutrition and physical activity.

Outcome & Recovery

Recovery time varies based on the individual, procedure, and severity of the condition.

Success Rate

The success rate relies on factors including the condition's stage, patient age, and procedure complexity.

Do’s & Don’ts

Consider an intragastric balloon but abstain from smoking and alcohol, consume fruits and vegetables, and avoid skipping meals.!