Obesity

Obesity affects more than 40% of adults in the United States, which increases their risk of chronic diseases. At Calloway Primary Care & Wellness LLC in Indian Land, South Carolina, family nurse practitioner Cassandra Calloway, MSN, FNP-C, BSN, RN, diagnoses and helps reduce obesity using lifestyle modifications and medical intervention when necessary. Schedule an obesity evaluation by calling the Calloway Primary Care & Wellness LLC office or requesting an appointment online today.

What is obesity?

Obesity is a condition in which an individual carries excess body weight. It’s characterized by a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater. In comparison, BMIs of 25-29.9 are classified as overweight, and BMIs in the 18.5-24.9 range are ideal based on height. BMIs less than 18.5 are considered underweight.

If you weigh more than you’d like to and need help managing obesity, see Cassandra at Calloway Primary Care & Wellness LLC for a personalized plan. 

What can increase the risk of obesity?

Genetic and environmental factors may both contribute to obesity. Examples include:

• Poor diet
• Lack of exercise
• Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions
• Stress
• Emotional eating
• Genetics
• Family history of obesity
• Thyroid diseases 
• Hormonal imbalances
• Some medications
• Lack of sleep 

Regardless of the cause, Cassandra can help you combat obesity in a safe, healthy, and effective manner.

What are examples of obesity-related medical complications?

Health concerns that may be linked to obesity include:

• Diabetes
• Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol)
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Heart disease
• Insomnia
• Hormonal changes
• Infertility
• Depression and anxiety 
• Heart attacks
• Strokes
• Certain cancers
• Digestive problems
• Osteoarthritis
• Gout
• Liver diseases
• Kidney problems
• Chronic pain
• Gallstones
• Asthma
• Dementia

Treating many of these conditions early can help you better manage them and avoid serious complications. 

What can I expect during obesity management?

Cassandra meets with you to discuss your weight, BMI, medical history, lifestyle, symptoms, dietary supplements, diet, exercise, lifestyle habits, and goals. You also receive a check of your blood pressure, pulse, and other vital signs.

Cassandra completes a physical exam to screen for signs of common medical concerns. She may order blood tests or additional diagnostic testing to determine which obesity treatment plan best matches your specific needs.

What does a weight loss plan include?

Your customized weight loss plan might include:

• Diet and/or exercise changes
• Dietary supplements
• Weight loss medications
• Stress-reduction techniques 
• Intravenous (IV) therapy 
• Hormone therapy 
• More sleep
• Behavior-change strategies
• Mental health treatments 

Cassandra follows up to ensure your weight loss program is effective. She also helps you manage any chronic diseases and renew weight loss medicine prescriptions whenever necessary. Call her anytime with questions or concerns throughout your weight loss journey.

Schedule an obesity evaluation by calling the Calloway Primary Care & Wellness LLC office or booking an appointment online today.