Physician Recommendations in Northern Virginia and Congestive Heart Failure questions

Hi everyone! I'm new to this, so please bear with me! I'm in the process of meeting with a surgeon to discuss RNY surgery - I just went to my first information seminar and planning on making an appointment with the surgeon first thing Monday. I've been researching this for years - and have finally decided it's time to make the jump. I have 2 questions. 1. Does anyone have any recommendations for a good primary care physician in the NOVA area, preferably near Reston/Fairfax or even Woodbridge? The one I am currently seeing has me a little worried. I've been seeing doctors at this practice group for years, and while the two "main" doctors always tend to stick around, it's a revolving door. I'm at the point now where I really think I have congestive heart failure - pitting edema in my leg, ankles and feet; chest congestion; 10-15 lb. weight loss/gain on a daily basis (I believe do to water retention), nausea...and my current doctor just smiles, pats me on the back and gives me more diuretics. I think it's time to move on. I'm only 39, and I think that is what she is looking at as opposed to my history (morbid obesity, hypertension, etc.).  2. Does anyone know if gastric bypass can HELP congestive heart failure? Is this a complication for surgery? Meaning, would a surgeon not want do do the surgery on someone who has this problem? Thanks in advance for any thoughts you may have. I realize you aren't doctors, but any insight would be greatly appreciated. Jacqui

Hi Jacqui just wanted to welcome you and say hello I had Gastric Bypass in 2005 and it helped me w/ alot of things Im no longer a Diabetic but I cant anser your question, but Im sure there will be some on here who will so hang in there an they will be getting with ya soon. But I wanted to welcome you to the VA Board and say you will be making the best choice for you and we are all here for you. Good Luck....

Good am Jacqui - welcome to the VA board! I'm glad you are taking proactive steps towards a healthier YOU! I don't have any suggestions regarding a primary care doc in NOVA. However, there are some folks here who might be able to suggest one or 2. I can say that losing weight does signigicantly decrease many health issues obese folks encounter. If you are feeling uncomfortable with your current care its best to select other care. I cannot answer whether or not it would hinder the wls process however, it is something you will want to discuss with your wls surgeon during your intial chat. All best & keep us posted....

Hi Jacqui! Welcome to the VA Boards!  I can help with your first question...I use Herndon Family Medicine (well, in Herndon!).  Their website is: http://www.herndonfamilymedicine.com/ and their phone number is 703-481-1505. I personally always try to see Dr. Ragland, but all of the Drs. in there are wonderful (and have been with the practice for awhile as I haven't seen many of them come and go).  You must be your own advocate for your health no matter where you go or who you use...but HFM does seem to listen and acknowledge things though. I had them order a bunch of tests for me....just to be sure nothing was wrong. Nothing was wrong (score one for the Dr.), but it helped my head know that a bit better. I hope that helps... As for the other question, I'd ask your surgeon...each one has a different level of comfort when dealing wtih co-morbidities.