Question:
I don't know if I have enough co-morbid conditions to warrent surgery

My BMI is 49.I have sleep apnea, my back hurts. I thought I had reflux but the doctor has been doing tests to make sure and I dont. Now they have put me on a holter monitor to see if my heart rate is always this "extra beat". I am starting to get scared that my doctor is whittling away at my co-mobid conditions. Not that I want them but I would like to hold onto them at least until I get the operation. Anyone got any other ideas?    — K T. (posted on March 4, 2001)

March 3, 2001
It will depend on your insurance company; the standard for approval is a BMI of 40, or a BMI of 35 with significant co-morbidities. There are some variations among some companies however - some companies require the surgery to be only for treatment of an underlying co-morbidity. I did not think I had any significant co-morbidities, but my LOMN sure sounded like I did. My surgeon included my back pain, knee pain, hip pain, feet and ankle pain, general joint pain, shortness of breath, and stress incontinence. I am certain you may experience all of these as well! - Kate -
   — kateseidel

March 4, 2001
Have him check your cholesterol. If it's high, it'll help greatly. Joint pain, back pain... (difficult to exercise 'cause it hurts... etc.) Stress incontinence.
   — Dhelynn