If you are dealing with pain in the upper-right side of your abdomen, you likely have a gallbladder issue. In many cases, surgery is the best solution. And thanks to advances in medical technology, there are now several different types of gallbladder surgery available, including laparoscopic surgery.

Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that involves making small incisions in the abdomen. A tiny camera called a laparoscope is inserted into one of these incisions, allowing the surgeon to get a clear view of the gallbladder and surrounding organs.

Following the right diet plan and avoiding certain foods that can trigger gallbladder pain post-surgery is essential.

Read more: What To Eat & What To Avoid After Gallbladder Surgery

There are many benefits of laparoscopic gallbladder surgery, including:

1) Eliminates Gallstones

Gallstones are the most common reason for gallbladder surgery. This condition occurs when hardened deposits of digestive fluid form in the gallbladder.

Laparoscopic surgery is very effective at removing gallstones and has a high success rate. During the procedure, the surgeon will use special instruments to break up the stones and suction them out of the gallbladder.

Gallstones cause significant pain and can lead to other serious health problems like pancreatitis. By having laparoscopic gallbladder surgery, you can eliminate your gallstones and avoid these complications.

2) Lower Risks of Complications

Gallbladder surgery is done for various reasons like:

• Chronic inflammation of the gallbladder
• Gallstones
• Cancer

Complications from gallbladder surgery are rare but can include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Reactions to anesthesia
• Damage to surrounding organs

Laparoscopic surgery has a lower risk of complications when compared to open surgery. This is because it is a minimally invasive procedure that uses small incisions. There is less tissue damage and less blood loss. Patients who undergo laparoscopic surgery have a shorter hospital stay and a quicker recovery.

3) Minimal Scarring

An open gall bladder surgery will leave a large scar on your abdomen. A laparoscopic gall bladder surgery leaves only four tiny, unnoticeable scars.

These are called “keyhole” scars. The largest of the four scars is only about an inch long.

The others are even smaller. You will likely have some scarring from the surgery, but it will be minimal.

4) Lesser Pain and Blood Loss

Compared to traditional, open surgery, laparoscopic gallbladder surgery results in much lesser pain and blood loss. This is because the incisions are tiny, usually no more than half an inch. In addition, the surgeon will use a camera to guide them through the procedure, which means fewer mistakes are made.

As a result of these factors, patients who undergo laparoscopic gallbladder surgery tend to recover much faster than those who have open surgery. They can also leave the hospital sooner and resume normal activities within a shorter period.

5) It Is Safer

One of the best reasons to choose laparoscopic surgery is that it is much safer than traditional surgery. Laparoscopic surgery has a much lower risk of infection and other complications. For example, traditional gallbladder surgery has a risk of up to 20 percent developing an infection at the incision site.

6) Eliminates Inflammation

When the gallbladder is removed, the chronic inflammation that has been present in the area is also eliminated. This can help to improve your overall health and well-being. Inflammation may lead to side effects like fatigue, pain, and digestive problems.

Laparoscopic surgery is the best solution to get rid of inflammation.

For the best laparoscopic gall bladder surgery in Baltimore, call Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital. Our surgeons are highly experienced in performing this minimally invasive procedure and will work closely with you to ensure your comfort before, during, and after the surgery. Contact us to learn more, or schedule your consultation today.

Gastric sleeve surgery is a weight loss procedure that involves removing a portion of the stomach. This results in a smaller stomach, meaning you will feel full more quickly after eating and eat less overall. Gastric sleeve surgery is usually performed as a laparoscopic surgery, which is minimally invasive.

Gastric sleeve surgery is a severe operation, and it is essential to follow your surgeon’s instructions for post-operative care. For example, taking the proper medications and over-the-counter painkillers is essential for pain relief.

Read more: What Medication to Take and What to Avoid After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

One of the most common questions after gastric sleeve surgery is how long they should wait to have sex. Many factors will affect how soon you can have sex after gastric sleeve surgery.

1) Your Level of Pain and Discomfort

After any surgery, you will likely experience some pain and discomfort. This is normal and is to be expected. However, everyone experiences pain differently, so you must talk to your doctor about what you can expect. For some people, the pain and discomfort after gastric sleeve surgery might be mild enough to feel up to having sex within a week or two. For others, the pain might be more severe and last several weeks. It is essential to listen to your body and only have sex when you feel up to it.              

2) The Extent of Your Surgical Incisions

Gastric sleeve surgery requires making incisions in your stomach. In most cases, these incisions are minor and result in minimal scarring. However, everyone heals differently, so it is essential to ask your surgeon how your incisions are healing and when it would be safe to have sex without causing further damage.  

3) Your Energy Level

After any major surgery, it is common to feel tired and depleted for several weeks. This is because your body works hard to heal the incisions made during surgery. As a result, you might not feel up to having sex until at least four to six weeks after your gastric sleeve surgery.

4) Whether or Not You Have Any Complications   

While complications from gastric sleeve surgery are relatively rare, they can happen. If you develop any complications, such as an infection or hernia, it is essential to wait until they have been treated before having sex again. This could mean waiting several weeks or even longer before engaging in sexual activity. A hernia occurs when an internal organ protrudes through the wall of muscle or tissue that usually contains it. Most hernias happen within the abdominal cavity, between the chest and the hips.

Are Some Positions Better Than Others?

Certain positions like missionary will strain your abdomen and may sometimes cause the stitches to tear up. Hence, choosing positions that do not apply pressure on the stomach is best.

Skin sagging and body changes will make you feel insecure about having sex. Feeling comfortable in your skin and playing around for a while is essential.

Overall, there is no one-size-fits-all answer regarding how long you should wait before having sex after gastric sleeve surgery. The best thing you can do is listen to your body and talk to your surgeon about when it would be safe to resume sexual activity based on your situation.

Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital is the best place for gastric sleeve surgery in Maryland. Our doctors will help you in your weight loss journey effectively.

A hernia is a condition that affects millions of Americans each year. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that a hernia happens when an organ or tissue protrudes out of a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue.

Read more: What A Hiatal Hernia Feels Like.

You may consider surgery to fix the problem if you have been diagnosed with a hernia. One common type of surgery is mesh repair. It involves implanting a mesh into the affected area to hold everything in place. But how long does this type of repair last? And are there any risks associated with it? In this post, we will explore such questions and more.

What is Hernia Mesh Repair?

You may wonder what a hernia mesh looks like. Hernia mesh is a screen-like barrier made of synthetic material that is used to reinforce the abdominal wall.

Hernia mesh is used to repair hernias. A hernia happens when a vital organ or tissue bulges through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or tissue. Hernia mesh reinforces the weak area and prevents the hernia from recurring.

Here’s how the surgery is performed.

Hernia mesh surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed as an outpatient procedure. Your surgeon or doctor will make a small incision in the hernia area during the surgery.

They will then insert the hernia mesh through the incision and secure it. The doctor will close the incision with stitches or staples.

Is the Mesh Used for Hernia Mesh Repair Safe?

As with any surgery, some risks are associated with hernia mesh surgery. These risks include infection, bleeding, and pain. The doctor will go over these risks with you before the surgery so that you can make the perfect decision about whether or not to proceed.

It is important to note that hernia mesh surgery is widespread and carries a low risk of complications when performed by a skilled surgeon. In most cases, hernia mesh surgery successfully repairs the hernia and prevents it from recurring.

How Long Does Hernia Mesh Repair Last?

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states that hernia mesh is a permanent implant. It means that once implanted; it is not designed to be removed. The FDA also states that hernia mesh should last a lifetime. However, many reports of hernia mesh failure and the need for revision surgery.

Hence, it is crucial to consult with a board-certified hernia surgeon to learn about the risks and benefits of hernia surgery and the types of hernia mesh available. The surgeon will also be able to advise on the expected lifespan of the repair.

Saint Agnes Medical Group offers expert hernia repair Baltimore. Our doctors have extensive experience treating all types of hernias, from the most common to the most complex.

With obesity, there are so many different health concerns that can arise. You may be worried about your heart health, your joint health, or even your mental health. Bariatric surgery is an excellent method to lose weight and improve overall health. But, one side effect you may not be prepared for is hair loss.

An average human will lose around 50-100 strands per day. Hair loss after bariatric surgery is quite common. It’s estimated that 50-80% of women will experience hair loss after the procedure.

Read on to understand how to prevent hair loss after gastric sleeve surgery.

Why Does Bariatric Surgery Cause Hair Loss?

There are a few reasons why bariatric surgery can lead to hair loss.

1) The surgery can be traumatic to the body and lead to temporary hair loss. It is usually not permanent, and your hair will grow back within a few months.

2) Some medications used during and after surgery can cause hair loss. These include:

• Steroids
• Beta blockers
• Calcium channel blockers
• Diuretics
• Antidepressants

If you are taking such medications, talk to your doctor about the possibility of switching to a different medication.

3) Nutritional deficiencies can also cause hair loss. For example, if you are not getting enough protein, iron, or zinc in your diet, you may experience hair loss.

4) Finally, stress can play a role in hair loss. The surgery can be stressful, and many people experience financial stress after surgery. If you are struggling with stress, talk to your doctor or a counselor.

Expert Tips to Prevent or Reduce Hair Loss After Bariatric Surgery

Eat a Balanced and Healthy Diet

According to WHO (the World Health Organization), hair loss can be caused by a lack of protein in the diet. Protein is essential for the formation of new hair cells. A balanced and healthy diet should include plenty of protein-rich foods, such as lean meats, fish, poultry, eggs, beans, lentils, tofu, and nuts.

Read more: Snack Time: The Best Protein For Bariatric Patients

A bariatric surgery diet typically contains 60-80 grams of protein daily. Protein supplements can also help ensure you get enough of this essential nutrient.

Read this article: What Foods Can You Not Eat After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Use Supplements

Your doctor may recommend taking supplements to prevent hair loss. Supplements such as biotin, iron, and zinc can help your body create new hair cells. You may need to take these for several months before you see results.

Ascension Saint Agnes Bariatric Surgery provides exceptional bariatric surgery in Maryland . Our surgeons have years of experience helping people achieve their weight-loss goals. Call us today to learn more.

Heartburn is not fun, and most of us have experienced heartburn at some point in our lives. Sometimes, it happens after eating a hearty meal. But for about 20% of the population, heartburn is a regular occurrence.

We all know that acid reflux is aggravated by fatty and spicy foods, but what foods are the best foods for heartburn? In this article, we’ll be taking a look at what heartburn is and what acid reflux foods are good for managing symptoms.

What Is Acid Reflux (GERD)?

Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a disease characterized by stomach acid coming up into the esophagus. Chronic acid reflux, also known as GERD, can lead to significant discomfort and potential health risks if not managed properly. This happens because the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) doesn’t close properly during digestion.

Heartburn is the most common and most noticeable symptom of GERD. However, acid reflux disease that goes unchecked can lead to some serious issues, such as esophageal ulcers and esophageal cancer.

Learn more about the relationship between anxiety and acid reflux: Can Anxiety Cause Acid Reflux – Bariatric Surgery.

Foods That Trigger Acid Reflux

Certain foods are notorious for triggering acid reflux by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing stomach acid production, or slowing down digestion. If you suffer from acid reflux, it’s wise to avoid or limit the following:

• Citrus fruits and juices: Lemons, oranges, and grapefruits are high in citric acid, which can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms.
• Tomatoes and tomato-based products: Sauces, soups, and even ketchup can trigger acid reflux due to their high acidity.
• Fatty and fried foods: French fries, fried chicken, and other greasy foods can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and slow digestion.
• Chocolate and cocoa products: These can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and increase stomach acid production.
• Spicy foods: Hot peppers, wasabi, and other spicy ingredients can irritate the esophagus and trigger heartburn symptoms.
• Mint and peppermint products: These can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.
• Caffeine and carbonated drinks: Coffee, soda, and other caffeinated beverages can increase stomach acid production and relax the lower esophageal sphincter.
• Processed meats: Hot dogs, sausages, and other processed meats are high in fat and can trigger acid reflux.
• High-fat dairy products: Cheese, whole milk, and other high-fat dairy products can slow digestion and relax the lower esophageal sphincter.

By identifying and avoiding these trigger foods, you can help manage your acid reflux symptoms more effectively.

What Foods Help Acid Reflux Go Away?

Unfortunately, there are no foods that can help acid reflux go away on their own. GERD has no known cure, but there is evidence that some foods (particularly foods that are high in fiber and low in fat) can help reduce symptoms of GERD.

Following a GERD diet can help manage symptoms by focusing on foods that are high in fiber and low in fat. If you’re dealing with GERD or just have occasional heartburn, and you want to try and reduce the effect of heartburn on your life, try eating more of the following foods.

Best Foods for Heartburn Symptoms

Choosing the right foods can greatly impact how you manage acid reflux symptoms. Certain foods help by reducing stomach acid production and soothing the digestive system. Including these foods in your diet can ease discomfort and prevent symptoms related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Noncitrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are high in citric acid, which can worsen acid reflux symptoms. However, fruits are great for overall health, and more alkaline fruits such as bananas, watermelon, and honeydew can help improve digestion for those with GERD. While noncitrus fruits are beneficial, it’s important to identify foods to avoid that can trigger acid reflux.

Vegetables

There are a million reasons to eat vegetables, and their fiber content is one of the biggest. Vegetables such as spinach, asparagus, broccoli, carrots, and beets can help increase your fiber and reduce acid reflux symptoms. Incorporating these vegetables into your diet can help reduce the likelihood of trigger symptoms associated with acid reflux.

Lean Meats

Fatty foods, such as fatty meats, have high levels of saturated fat, which is known to make heartburn worse. Choosing leaner cuts of meat such as chicken breast, tilapia, pork tenderloin, and top sirloin can help reduce your overall saturated fat intake.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are high in fiber, making them ideal for reducing acid reflux symptoms. Try replacing your refined-grain foods like white pasta and bread with their whole-grain equivalents. If nothing else, adding more fiber to your diet will help improve your digestion overall. Whole grains are also recommended by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases for their overall health benefits.

Conclusion

Managing acid reflux requires a combination of dietary adjustments and lifestyle changes. By incorporating high-fiber, low-fat foods such as noncitrus fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains into your diet, you can effectively reduce acid reflux symptoms and improve your overall digestive health. Remember to identify and avoid trigger foods to prevent discomfort and maintain a balanced GERD diet for long-term relief.

For individuals with severe GERD symptoms that do not respond to medical treatment, surgical options may be necessary. If you have severe heartburn that doesn’t seem to go away and you’re near the Baltimore area, consider giving Ascension Saint Agnes Bariatric Surgery a call. We’re one of the leading surgery clinics serving Baltimore, specializing in hernia and bariatric surgery. Dysphagia (or trouble swallowing) is one of the most severe symptoms of GERD and is seen in people with both hiatal hernia and severe GERD. Learn more about how we treat hiatal hernia: GERD & Reflux treatment near Baltimore. Contact us today and take the first step towards relief!