Approximately 52 million Americans have at least one chronic disease. Advancing age only increases the chances of developing an issue such as hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, thyroid disease and others.
If you or a loved one wish to live well with chronic disease but are not sure how to do it, read this blog to learn the management basics.
1. Talk with Your Doctor Regularly
It is vital to keep all your annual checkups with your doctor, and to communicate through the patient portal if you have questions or concerns you wish to discuss. Your doctor oversees all your health conditions and can educate you about treatments, medications and ways to change your lifestyle to improve wellness.
2. Follow Your Provider’s Care Plan
When you consult with your doctor during routine check-ups, you will discuss your medical history, current symptoms, medications and other aspects of your long-term health maintenance. Your provider will update your vaccinations, refill any prescriptions and order screening tests for cholesterol, blood sugar, cancer and others.
Together, you will determine how to care for any acute problems right away and chronic issues in the long term.
3. Change Some Lifestyle Habits
Most people can improve on exercise, eating, stress reduction and other issues which influence chronic health conditions.
If you smoke, ask your provider about a “quit tobacco program” with medications and support counseling, and then commit to it. Regarding your diet, add healthy choices, and taper off sugar, salt and processed foods.
Your doctor is a great source of education on the how’s and why’s of beneficial eating habits and also can refer you to a nutritionist or dietician to fine-tune your diet.
4. Partner with a Friend or Family Member
If you have a chronic disease like arthritis and you want to improve how you feel and function, partner with someone you like and trust in an exercise program and in tracking symptoms.
There truly is strength in numbers, as the old saying goes. Having a partner in wellness encourages and motivates you toward achieving realistic goals.
5. Know All You Can About Your Condition and Available Treatments
The right knowledge truly empowers you. If you have hypertension, learn how to track your numbers at home, and report any concerns to your provider right away.
Or, if you have mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, read about symptoms and what to do to feel better and to engage in your daily activities. Participate in a support group or trusted friend or counselor to assist you in identifying and coping with your moods.
Chronic Disease Management with Premier Medical Group in Florida
Throughout the state of Florida, our fully staffed clinics deliver compassionate, comprehensive and patient-centered medical care. We help all our patients deal well with chronic diseases by being your first and best resource for education, coordination and acute and chronic disease treatment.
Come see us at one of our two Premier Medical Group locations to learn more. Call the Orlando location at (407) 735-2114. Or, request your appointment online. Our family medicine physicians and their team will be honored to be of service to you and your loved ones.