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Morbid Obesity Due To Excess Calories
Morbid obesity, defined as a BMI of 40 or above, occurs when caloric intake exceeds expenditure. It increases risk of diabetes, heart disease, joint issues, and sleep apnea. Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs in Houston provides comprehensive expert, personalized treatment solutions.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Consistently consuming more calories than are expended
Sedentary lifestyle or low levels of physical activity
Genetic predisposition or family history of obesity
Rapid or steady weight gain, especially around the abdomen
Shortness of breath during routine activities
Joint pain in knees, hips, or lower back
Chronic fatigue or low energy levels
Sleep disturbances, including sleep apnea or heavy snoring
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your personal and family history of weight-related conditions, eating habits, activity level, and measures your BMI and waist circumference.
Vital Signs and Laboratory Tests
He checks blood pressure and orders blood work to evaluate fasting blood sugar, lipid panel, liver enzymes, thyroid function, and relevant hormones.
Additional Assessments
Body composition analysis (e.g., DEXA scan) to distinguish fat versus muscle mass.
Ultrasound evaluation for fatty liver disease if indicated.
Sleep study referral when sleep apnea or other sleep disorders are suspected.
Comprehensive Evaluation
All findings are integrated to identify underlying contributors-such as metabolic or endocrine issues-and to tailor a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for fatty liver disease.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Personalized meal plans to reduce sugar and unhealthy fats
Exercise programs to support steady weight loss
Guidance on how to lower liver enzymes through diet and fitness
2. Medications
We follow the latest FDA fatty liver disease guidelines.
We may prescribe an FDA-approved fatty liver disease drug to reduce inflammation or control cholesterol.
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
FibroScan for non-surgical monitoring
Clinical trials of new therapies for NASH or MASH liver disease
Endoscopic treatments for advanced scarring (in selected cases)
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What BMI is considered morbid obesity?
A BMI of 40 or higher, or 35 and above if you have related health conditions.
What is the ICD-10 code for morbid obesity due to excess calories?
The code is E66.01.
Can diet and exercise alone help with severe obesity?
Diet and exercise are important, but many people also benefit from medications or procedures for greater weight loss.
When will I start seeing results?
Most patients notice changes within the first 4 to 12 weeks of starting their personalized plan.
Will insurance cover my treatment?
Coverage depends on your insurance plan, and our Houston team will help verify your benefits before treatment.
Can the endoscopic sleeve be reversed?
While the endoscopic sleeve can be adjusted or removed, it is designed to support long-term weight management.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please bring a list of current medications, recent lab results, and your medical history.
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