Chronic disease management is a care plan that maximizes your health and overall wellness. It is a treatment plan that caters to people of all ages. Following your chronic disease management South Charleston program can help improve your quality of life since your specialist addresses aspects like medication, nutrition, and exercise plan.
What is a chronic disease?
A chronic illness is any health issue that persists for more than 12 months, and you must take medication on an ongoing basis to manage it. Chronic diseases might go on for years, and most of them can be incurable.
Types of chronic diseases
The most common types of chronic illnesses include:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Fibromyalgia
- Arthritis
- Heart disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
Factors that affect your chronic disease management plan
A chronic care plan varies from one individual to the other. Your specialist might try to give you a personalized program according to your illness and needs. Some factors that can affect your chronic disease management plan include your age, medical and family history, your job and responsibilities, diet and lifestyle, your environment, and whether or not you use tobacco.
Aspects that your chronic disease management plan will address
For your treatment plan to work, your specialist must address all the areas of your program plan. They must work on their physical wellness and mental wellness to strike a balance that works for you long-term.
Medication reviews
Your specialist will look at your medications and how you react to them. If you respond positively to them, they can maintain them in your care plan. If the medicine does not improve your condition or if they interact with other medications, your specialist might consider changing them.
Physical exams and other diagnostic tests
You should undergo physical examinations to determine your health status. Depending on your condition, your healthcare provider might ask you to perform certain activities and observe how your body responds.
Nutrition
Chronic diseases require a balanced diet that supports optimal health. Your specialist might recommend an anti-inflammatory diet that helps you manage your condition better. Remember to include high-quality protein and carbohydrate foods with a good serving of fruits and vegetables.
Physical therapies
Chronic conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia might require physical therapy and a good exercise plan to keep your body flexible and reduce stiffness. Your doctor will discuss exercises that can make you feel better.
Specialist appointmentsÂ
Since a chronic illness is long-term, your specialist might recommend routine specialist appointments where they can assess you and offer counseling and patient education. Talking through your health concerns can help you manage your condition better. They might connect you with support groups of people with the same illness.
If you have a chronic illness, visit Patel & Patel M.D., Inc., for a personalized chronic disease management plan. Get qualified and experienced specialists who can offer appropriate care for your age and lifestyle. Call or book an appointment online today and improve the quality of your life.
