Managing Chronic Diseases

Family medicine: Chronic conditions

Chronic diseases are defined as conditions which last longer than one year, impact daily life, and require ongoing medical care. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease are associated with many other, often severe, health implications.

The good news is that many of the most prevalent chronic diseases can be prevented, or the risk of them developing be reduced, by making simple lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising more and quitting smoking.

Cardiovascular disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death globally. Family medicine plays a vital role in reducing the number of people dying of cardiovascular disease and stroke by identifying factors that may increase the risk of them developing.

Crucially, improving your diet and increasing physical activity can reduce the risk of many types of cardiovascular disease and stroke. Regular screening and preventive steps such as monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, weight and any other existing conditions such as diabetes, are all essential.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a highly prevalent, yet serious condition. Managing diabetes properly is very important to avoid serious complications and health problems, including heart disease, diabetic neuropathy (kidney problems) and stroke.

The risk of developing type 2 diabetes can be reduced by losing weight, increasing physical activity and eating a balanced diet. Type 1 diabetes is caused by genetic factors and lifestyle changes can’t lower the risk of it developing.

Hypertension

Many adults are living with high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure can be caused by being overweight, not exercising enough, eating too much salt or being under a lot of stress. The only way to know if your blood pressure is too high is by having a blood pressure test.

If not managed properly, hypertension can increase the risk of many other health conditions including heart attack, stroke and kidney disease.

Managing chronic conditions

For patients diagnosed with a chronic disease, ongoing management of the condition with a family medicine specialist is essential to prevent further complications, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of other serious conditions from developing.

Chronic disease management may involve medications, guidance on lifestyle changes and monitoring of the condition via regular checkups and testing. Our specialists coordinate your care, working with experts from other departments, such as endocrinology or cardiology, to ensure every patient receives the best possible treatment and care.

Coordinated care for people living with chronic conditions

If you or a member of your family are living with a chronic disease, managing the condition with the support of a family medicine specialist is vital. Our team is here to help, every step of the way. Speak to the team today.