Taking all suggesttions

Hello All,

My name is Zanetta and this is my second time being a member on this website. I had my surgery close to eight years ago and now Im looking into having my surgery revised. What I'm writing about today is that I have a friend is who also working towards having the gastric bypass surgery. The problem that we are facing is that he is close to 700lbs and right now his legs has swollen up so bad that he cant stand on them.  I'm at a lost of how to help him get comfortable. Calling that ambulance is all of the question because of his size they don't have the equipment needed to one transport him or treat him.  Can any one tell him what I can so to try to relieve some of the fluid off his legs so that he can stand again.

Hi there,

He definitely needs medical care soon.  I think at his weight, there isn't much he is going to be able to do himself at home to fix his swelling.  You can call various bariatric centers for him (if he has insurance or Medicaid, you can find some providers through their website).  They would be able to suggest how to get transportation for him to come to the hospital or medical center.  A regular ambulance may not be able to transport him but they should be able to make accomidation for him.  I have seen where first responders (EMTs or fire fighters) can come to help move or transport a SMO patient.

I wish both you and him luck with getting support and help for your health issues.  You didn't say what kind of surgery you had but you may be able to revise to a DS if you can find a skilled doctor who performs the surgery.  I hope all goes well! Take care. 

get hold of a bariatric wheel chair even if you need to buy 1,  and a few strong people to get him in it , the ambulance should be able to take him then , or rent a truck if necessary

 

you might be able to find a doctor to make a house call, most places have nurses on call for shut ins  

 swollen legs can be from a lot of stuff mostly bad , it needs to be treated

 call the bariatric center they may know of some kind of transportation

 

my surgeon recommends the vsg for super heavy weights it is much safer , he had 1 patient that was 900 lb and lost most of his weight

Oh Dear, how vary heart touching and your sincere concern for your friend!
Yes, it sounds like he is in need of life threatening treatment and intervention! IF he is not able to stand on his feet and transportation is at none. Has he seen a doctor at all for the swelling in his legs. If there is an emergency then the medics would need to be called and they should be able to figure something out. He cannot just die in his house! Is he on any water retention meds at this time? If he is not with a home health care provider or home health care nurse there should be something or someone that should set that up for him. Sounds like he is lucky to have you as a friend!
Best wish for the both of you. Hang in there and for sure my prayers are out for you and you friend! I have a dear friend that is nearing 700lbs and I can only encourage and help so far.
Who or how does he get foods to eat? Try starting there also with less sodium... but honestly it sounds like he needs medical intervention and help!

Hugs!