The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines a chronic disease as a condition that lasts longer than one year and requires ongoing medical care and/or the limitation of daily activity. The good news is that many chronic illnesses are preventable or manageable once you’ve been diagnosed. The even better news is that if you have a chronic condition, you don’t have to go it alone. Your primary care doctor will be your willing and enthusiastic partner in helping you manage your chronic illnesses. Let’s take a look at some of the more common chronic illnesses and how your doctor can help you lead a healthier and more rewarding life while keeping your conditions under control.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, causing over 600,000 deaths each year. The risk of developing heart disease increases as you get older. It often runs in families, but can also be caused by many lifestyles and environmental factors such as smoking, high-fat diets, lack of exercise, alcohol, and stress. Other chronic illnesses such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol also contribute to the development of heart disease. Your doctor will continuously monitor your heart health through a variety of tests and provide medications and lifestyle changes recommendations to ensure your condition stays under control. Heart disease needs long-term care – this is something your doctor can provide on a regular basis.
Cancer
Cancer is a disease that involves overgrowth of abnormal cells in any part of the body. Some common cancers in the United States are breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, and lung cancer. Family history plays a role in the development of cancer, but lifestyle habits including smoking and diet are also contributors. Oncologists are sub-specialists that treat cancer, however, if you have cancer many of your other doctors, including your primary care physician, will work together to support you during treatment. Your doctors will collaborate by sharing information about your diagnostic tests, medications, and your overall health to provide better long-term care, which is very important in the prevention of future problems.
Diabetes
As with many chronic illnesses, diabetes tends to run in families. However, lifestyle choices and diet are strongly associated with this chronic illness. Normal blood sugar levels are essential in creating a healthy body that functions well. Higher than normal blood sugars can lead to problems with your heart, kidneys, eyes, and arteries, and can make healing from injuries or infections more difficult. Type 2 diabetes can develop, especially in people that are overweight and those who do not get enough exercise. Your primary care physician will look out for specific symptoms that could suggest you may have diabetes. If you already have diabetes, your doctor will check your blood sugar on a regular basis and manage your diabetes medication to ensure you are taking the right amount at all times.
Arthritis
The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, affecting over 30 million Americans. It is caused by the wearing down of cartilage (protective tissue) inside joints, which results in pain. Risk factors include high-impact activities, repetitive activities, obesity, and age. The pain from arthritis, if left untreated, can be very debilitating, leading to less activity and other health problems. Your doctor can help you manage symptoms or slow down the progression of the condition through many medications, treatments, physical therapy, and surgery.
Depression and Anxiety
Millions of Americans have depression and anxiety disorders. Identifying mental illness, followed by appropriate treatment, are key to maintaining a good quality of life. Treatment may include medications, counseling, and lifestyle changes – all provided/recommended by your doctor on a continuous basis. Your doctor will be very involved in helping you manage the symptoms of depression and/or anxiety.
Dr. Adam Possner specializes in internal medicine, providing high-quality primary care for individuals of age 18 and older. If you have chronic conditions and are looking for a primary care provider, Dr. Possner and his caring staff are here to help.
For chronic care management or any other questions about your health, contact us today. We look forward partnering with you to achieve your best health.
