Question:
Where do I find a list of Co-Morbities?

I need help with a list of co-morbities, to make the insurance company & my family doctor know the reasons why WLS is necessary. Here is what I have so far. Are these Co-morbities? 1)Respiratory, breathing problems. 2)High cholesteral levels. Sometimes in the mid 300's. 3)Arthritis & joints damaged. 4)Fibromyalgia-pain 24 hrs./day. 5)Activity Interlorance due to pain, SOB, & Obesity. 6)Uncontrolled urinary incontinence, sneezing, coughing, laughing, or middle of the night. 7)SOB or winded after walking a short distance. 8)Irregular pulse & chest tightness after walking or lifting anything. 9)Blood sugar levels that are extremely high or low, never controlled. 10)BMI 50+; Ht.5'2"; Wt.277 11)Born with Spina Bifidia Occulta; (bones in lower side of left spine are missing). Caused partial parlyizes to left leg & foot. Along with severe back pain from time of being pregnant until now. 12)Unable to exercise due to most of the problems I already have.    — Mary H. (posted on August 2, 2002)

August 2, 2002
As far as i know comorbidity problems include: 1. any degenerative joint disease ( with abnormal x-rays and orthopedic recommendation for joint replacement or surgery) 2. cadiovascular problem ( high blood pressure, high cholesterol, congestive heart failure and cardiomyopathy) ) 3. uncontrolled diabetes 4.incontinence relate to obesity 9 documented by ob-gyn doctor) 5. obstructive sleep apnea ( using c-pap machine to sleep) 6. lowback pain if significantly diabling and weight lost is recommendated. Well, i think you have the comobitdity plus the bmi over 40 -50
   — mimie V.

August 2, 2002
Barbara Thompson's book "Surgical Weight Loss" gives a great list of co-morbidities. I was surprised at some of them and had not considered something like depression to qualify..but it does! Typically it includes structural (bone) problems including joints, degenerative disk disease, arthritis, heel spurs, etc. Vascular problems including phlebitis, swollen ankles, heart disease, stroke. And respiratory diseases such as chronic bronchitis, asthma, sleep apnea, etc.
   — Thomas M.

August 2, 2002
All that you listed are comorbities except the spina bifida, although the problems caused by the spina bifida are increased with MO. You should have no problems getting approval from your PCP or the insurance co. Even just a bmi of 50+ can qualify you, but with the other comorbid probs, some very serious, you should not have any problems. Take a copy of the rationale for WLS that is on the ASBS.org website(15-16 Pages). It will give even more proof and will also give your PCP a lot of very good info and resources about WLS if he/she is not familiar with it. Good luck to you
   — Lynn L.

August 15, 2002
Sharon Brittain's profile has a list of 100+ comorbidities. She shares other interesting things as well.
   — joyfulnoyz