Your Complete Guide to Chronic Disease Management

Chronic diseases are health conditions that last more than a few months and require ongoing medical care. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around six in every 10 United States citizens suffers from one or more chronic diseases, accounting for 90% of total annual healthcare costs.

Unlike acute problems such as the flu or a sprained ankle, chronic conditions don’t go away with time or short-term treatments. At Triad Internal Medicine, we specialize in diagnosing and treating patients with long-term health problems.

Common chronic illnesses include:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes
• Cancer
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Stroke
• Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
• Chronic kidney disease
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Chronic pain
• Arthritis

These conditions can limit your ability to carry out daily tasks, work, or enjoy recreational activities. Without proper care, they often worsen over time, increasing symptoms and reducing quality of life. However, with consistent management, many people with chronic diseases stay active and maintain their independence.

What does chronic disease management involve?

Managing a chronic disease successfully requires a combination of medical care, healthy habits, and self-awareness. Here’s how you can take charge of your condition:

Follow your treatment plan

At Triad Internal Medicine, we work closely with you to create a treatment plan that meets your needs. We then help you understand how and when to take your medications, use medical equipment if needed, and follow any other instructions we give you.

Taking medications as prescribed is especially important. Missing doses or taking drugs incorrectly can make symptoms worse or lead to complications, so stay organized with reminders or pill organizers. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or reach out if something isn’t clear.

Get regular checkups

Chronic diseases can affect multiple aspects of your health, so routine medical visits are essential. These appointments allow us to assess how well your treatment plan is working and adjust it, if needed. Regular monitoring, such as checking your blood pressure, blood sugar, or weight, helps you catch problems early.

We advise how often you should come in for checkups, lab tests, and screenings. If you notice any unusual changes between routine appointments, like a sudden spike in blood pressure or worsening symptoms, let us know right away.

Stay active

Physical activity offers many benefits for people with chronic diseases. Regular exercise can:

• Help you sleep better and feel more energetic
• Improve your mental health and reduce stress
• Manage pain and improve movement, especially with arthritis
• Lower your risk of complications like poor circulation
• Help you manage your weight

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week and two days of muscle-strengthening exercises. If that’s too much, start small. Even just a little movement is better than none. Talk to us about what activities are safe and suitable for your abilities.

Learn about your condition

Understanding your chronic disease empowers you to make informed decisions about your health. We can point you toward reliable resources and self-management education (SME) programs that teach you skills to manage symptoms, improve your eating habits, reduce stress, and lead a healthier lifestyle.

Avoid triggers

Certain behaviors or situations can worsen chronic conditions. For example, smoking, unhealthy eating, or excessive stress may trigger symptoms. Identify your triggers, and work on avoiding them. If you’re unsure what your triggers are, we can help you figure them out.

Tips for prevention and long-term management

No one can eliminate their chances of developing a chronic disease, but healthy habits lower your risks or help you manage a condition you already have. Here are some tips:

Eat a balanced diet

Focus on a diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit sugary drinks, processed foods, and sodium.

Stay hydrated

Drink water throughout the day to ensure your body is functioning well.

Prioritize sleep

Support your overall health by aiming for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night.

Manage stress

Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, and meditation. Connecting with loved ones or a support group can also help.

Quit smoking

Smoking worsens many chronic conditions and increases the risk of complications. If you need help quitting, reach out to us for support and resources.

Limit alcohol

Drinking in moderation or not at all can reduce stress on your liver and other organs.

Living with a chronic disease isn’t easy, but it doesn’t have to define your life. By following your treatment plan, staying active, and making healthy choices, you can manage your condition and enjoy a good quality of life.

Call the Triad Internal Medicine office to discuss your chronic disease management queries, or use the online booking form to request a consultation.