What is a Chronic Disease?
Chronic Diseases are conditions that last for an extended period of time, and require continuous treatment. These types of diseases are very common, and they become even more common with age. 6/10 Americans will have a Chronic disease in their lifetime. Our Physicians treat Chronic Diseases as well as give advice on how to prevent future problems.
Common Types of Chronic Diseases
The following list includes some of the most common Chronic Diseases, including heart disease, strokes, arthritis, cancer, and diabetes. There are also many other chronic conditions out there that are not mentioned here. Our physicians can help you determine if you have a chronic disease, as well as if you are at risk for any chronic diseases. If you have any questions, contact us.
- Arthritis
- Arthritis is inflammation in one or more joints. Some symptoms are pain, stiffness, and swelling. Arthritis tends to get worse with age.
- Cancer
- Cancer is a disease where abnormal cell growth, also known as a malignant tumor, occurs and spreads throughout the body. Some early signs of cancer are unexplainable fatigue, unexplainable weight loss, lumps or swelling, or unusual bleeding.
- Diabetes
- Diabetes is a disease that inhibits your body from getting or using the insulin it needs, causing your blood glucose levels to be too high. Several of our physicians specialize in the treatment of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Click on the button below to learn more about our diabetes care.
- More About Our Diabetes Care
- Heart Disease
- Heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States. This condition interferes with blood flow to the heart, and can lead to a heart attack or heart failure. If you or someone you know appears to be having a heart attack, call 911 immediately.
- Stroke
- A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. After this occurs, brain cells will rapidly begin to die. Symptoms include trouble speaking, paralysis or numbness in one side of the face or body, and difficulty walking. If you or someone you know appears to be having a stroke, call 911 immediately.
Other Common Chronic Conditions
Many chronic conditions are less visible than the ones above but just as important to manage. High blood pressure and high cholesterol often cause no symptoms for years while raising the risk of heart attack and stroke. Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affect breathing and respond well to the right inhaled treatment. Thyroid disorders, chronic kidney disease, osteoporosis, and depression and anxiety are also common in adults and are routinely managed in internal medicine.
Risk Factors for Chronic Diseases
Most Chronic Diseases are preventable. Some of the most common causes of chronic diseases are:
- Unhealthy Diet
- Lack of Physical Activity
- Excessive Alcohol Use
- Tobacco Use
Long-Term Treatment
Many Chronic Diseases require long-term treatment, and you may need to frequently visit a physician. Our caring team will help you take the necessary steps to manage and treat whatever chronic disease you may be dealing with.
What Good Long-Term Care Looks Like
Managing a chronic condition well usually comes down to a few steady habits: regular follow-up visits at an interval that suits the condition, periodic review of medications so doses stay right and side effects are caught, monitoring such as blood tests or home readings, attention to diet, activity and sleep, and coordination between your primary physician and any specialists involved. The aim is fewer flare-ups, fewer hospital visits and a condition that fits around your life rather than the other way round.