Tests & Treatments for Obesity at University of Colorado Hospital

Tests for Obesity

Serum Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Level (TSH)

Tests hormone level to detect hypothyroidism and Cushing’s Syndrome. Occasionally excessive weight gain can be related to these conditions, rarely cause more than a 10 to 20 pound weight increase.

Physical Examination

You will also have a physical exam to determine your overall health. This may include various tests to check blood pressure, cholesterol and heart function.

Treatments for Obesity

Diet and Exercise Program

Reducing calorie intake and increasing exercise is the basis of all weight loss programs.

Medication

When diet and exercise are not effective, certain medications may be prescribed. These are medications prescribed by your doctor and do not include unapproved over the counter weight loss pills.

Surgery

Surgery is reserved for people with severe obesity or whose obesity is causing significant medical complications. There are three major types of surgery performed:

Gastroplasty – reduced the size of the stomach to limit food intake ability.

Intestinal Bypass – rearranges intestines so less food is absorbed

Gastroplasty Intestinal Bypass – a combination of both of the above surgeries.