Q. How do gastric bands work?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Gastric bands, also known as laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), are a type of bariatric surgery designed to help individuals struggling with morbid obesity lose weight. The procedure involves the placement of an adjustable, silicone band around the upper part of the stomach. This creates a smaller pouch which limits how much food can be eaten and makes you feel fuller sooner so that fewer calories are consumed overall.

The mechanism behind gastric bands is primarily driven by physiological changes in hunger and satiety signals sent from the stomach to brain. When placed in the abdomen, it forms an artificial “stoma” or connection between the top and bottom parts of your stomach, creating two separate compartments for food intake instead of one continuous area for digestion. As food enters this stoma, it is compressed by the tightness of the band causing an immediate feeling fullness or satiety even if only small amounts are being eaten at once; due to this phenomenon most people often report satisfaction with smaller meals since they take longer to eat them than normally would be possible without a gastric band.

In addition to helping people feel full faster when eating less-processed foods like fruits and vegetables rather than junk food or fast-foods; gastric bands can also aid hormonal regulation throughout digestion—such as providing sustained release concentrations of glucose while still controlling appetite hormones like ghrelin which helps reduce feelings of hunger. Furthermore; after successful LAGB implantation patients typically experience reductions in their body mass index (BMI) as well as improved blood lipid levels (cholesterol & triglycerides) since weight loss results in decreased amounts circulating through their bloodstreams overall leading healthier long-term health outcomes over time!

Read Answer Right Arrow
Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

See all

Live Doctor consultation
Live Doctor Chat

Looking for expert medical advice and care can be a daunting task, especially when you need it urgently. But with Second Medic, you can connect with the best doctors in just a few minutes and have a private care conversation with them, all for free!

Our platform is designed to make it easy for you to get the medical advice and care you need without any hassle. Whether you have a minor health concern or a serious medical condition, our team of experienced doctors are here to help.

At Second Medic, we understand the importance of timely and reliable medical advice. That's why we've made it our mission to provide you with the best possible care, at the convenience of your own home.

Our platform is easy to use, and you can connect with a doctor in just a few simple steps. All you need to do is create an account, tell us about your health concern, and we'll match you with a doctor who has the expertise to help you.

You can then have a private care conversation with your doctor, where you can discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any other concerns you may have. Our doctors will then provide you with expert advice and guidance on the next steps to take.

So, whether you're looking for medical advice, a second opinion, or a prescription refill, Second Medic has got you covered. With our platform, you can get the care you need, when you need it, all for free!