We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Does a Bariatric Specialist Do?

By Britt Archer
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 8,726
Share

A bariatric specialist is a physician who specializes in the treatment of obese patients and conditions that are related to their weight. Practitioners of bariatric medicine include doctors, physician assistants and nurse practitioners. These specialists also concentrate on the prevention and causes of obesity. The word “bariatrics” was coined in 1965 from a German word that translates to English as “large.”

Obesity, the state of being at least 20 percent overweight, is a condition that can lead to other diseases and health problems, including several that can be fatal. It is necessary for a bariatric specialist to be specially trained in these conditions and the ways in which weight can affect them. Obesity by itself can also be fatal.

Diseases that can be caused or exacerbated by obesity include diabetes, some cancers, arthritis, stroke, hypertension, gout, heart disease, and sleep apnea. Obesity also can increase a person’s chances of developing stress incontinence, skin ulcers or wounds, and gall bladder and respiratory diseases. Treatment provided by a bariatric specialist can vary but often includes exercise, diet and other changes in lifestyle, medication and sometimes surgery.

A bariatric specialist supervises a patient’s weight loss plan and nutrition to ensure the patient is getting adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals while limiting caloric intake. A psychological component can also be part of the treatment, especially if a patient overeats because of emotional needs. Prescription medicines to help a patient lose weight can be used for a short period.

Bariatric surgery, sometimes referred to as gastric bypass surgery, is an option, but only in extreme cases. When surgery is recommended, a bariatric specialist will work hand in hand with a bariatric surgeon to ensure a patient is receiving proper care. Patients who undergo bariatric surgery also must embrace diet and lifestyle changes for the results to be permanent.

Nurses who specialize in the care of bariatric patients have special considerations in dealing with treatment. A patient’s weight may make some types of movement difficult, and this could lead to falls and injuries. In a hospital setting, these nurses can ensure breathing aids are available for patients who suffer from sleep apnea, or more rugged and size-appropriate wheelchairs and other devices are on hand for patients who have mobility problems.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
By anon993065 — On Oct 21, 2015

I had bariatric surgery in 2008 in California. I now live in Geneva IL, and having lots of stomach issues with dumping syndrome, rapid heartbeat, upset stomach. I would like to know is there anything I can do about it or what kind of a doctor should I go see or this issue?

Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-does-a-bariatric-specialist-do.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.