Concerned about my dad

[Gayle 9]

I had surgery a while ago and my dad got all excited about it and he wants to have it to. He has an average BP of 188/98 and an A1C of 10.7 among other health problems. I'm afraid he isn't healthy enough for surgery. Did anybody else have similar health problems going into surgery?

[peacequeen 434]

Good reason to worry..it's your dad. But..I think if he has a good surgeon, he/she will do all the necessary tests for him before he gets clearance. If your dad has a good cardiologist, they'll do the same. I have alot of health issues but bp not being one of them. I know I am having to go through a ton of tests before my surgeon will lay a finger on me. I've read ALOT about others in the forum with the same problems and having the surgery and getting the weight off solved the problem.

[Gayle 9]

That's the scary thing, the surgeon isn't running any more tests. He did the psych test and that's it now it's going through insurance and he will be scheduling soon

[peacequeen 434]

Oh my,,well the surgeon must be confident that he's well enough for surgery. Maybe you can talk to your dad about seeing his pcp for a checkup or see a cardi and endo for the other issues. I hope all goes well. Your dad knows his body better than anyone, he must feel he's ok. I'm sorry sweetie, I wish I knew what to say to make you feel better. Keep us posted here!

[Sassygirl06 962]

they will give him meds to lower that blood pressure, thats what they did for my hypertensive friend prior to surgery. this will definately help him lower his blood pressure and his hgba1c for sure (losing weight) that is.

i hope all goes well

[Oregondaisy 2,021]

Getting sleeved is the best thing for him. When he loses weight, his high blood pressure will probably be gone. Most people are able to get off all their various medications a short time after surgery.

[Raine 170]

My BP was around there and my a1c was 11.5. Now I am on one BP med and my diabeties is in remission. Your dad sounds like he needs this. Your worry as a daughter is true blue, you love him. Him having this done will just let you love him longer. Good luck to him.

[longer-life 139]

I second the opinion that he goes to see his PCP.I have a very good one and "Out of an abundance of caution" she ordered a stress test that my Surgeon of Excellence did not. I have no doubt I have an excellent surgeon, but a second opinion is always great. Best wishes to you and your dad.

[Gayle 9]

He is already taking 4 different blood pressure medications. I really don't think another one is going to do that trick. I am just worried what will happen during the surgery.

[Lissa 2,631]

Gayle, I don't know what part of the country you're in, or where your dad is planning to have surgery, BUT... no surgeon wants a patient to die while in their care. If the surgeon is moving forward, then s/he must be confident that your dad will do well with the surgery.

Please encourage your dad to have the PCP do a second opinion, but you can also look up the surgeon on your state's medical license board. Most states tell whether the surgeon is in good standing and what their morbidity rate is. Ask the surgeon's office for his stats. I'm sure they'll be happy to show you that he has a good success rate (if he does) and if they won't tell you, it might be time for some second-guessing.

good luck to your dad!&

[kemo46 82]

The Doctors will take the necessary precautions. The blood pressure is high and only the Physician will be able to tell you if they can safely administer the medication to lower it to an acceptable level. It is a catch 22 situation on the Diabetes. My A1C test before surgery was 10.2, it is now under 6 with no medication. The weight loss, exercise and diet has all contributed to this. In his current situation, it will be very hard for him to exercise and lose weight so changing his diet will help in this area. You need to get at least a couple of medical opinions before deciding. Your dad might have reached the point that I did where the surgery is worth the risk. Good luck on your decision.