Chronic Disease Management

Chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, are widespread and affect 6 in every 10 adults in the United States. If this statistic includes you, schedule an appointment with Krista Shenkman, MSN, BBA, APRN, AGPCNP-BC, and the team at Seaside Wellness Primary Care in Clearwater, Florida. Seeking early treatment can prevent severe complications and drastically improve the quality and duration of your life. Make an appointment with Seaside Wellness Primary Care by calling the office or requesting one online today.

What are chronic diseases?

A chronic disease is a long-lasting health condition. It’s often defined as a disease lasting a year or longer that requires ongoing medical attention to prevent complications. Chronic diseases are the leading cause of death and disability in the United States, but you can still live a long, fulfilling life with proper medical care from a qualified provider.

What are some common chronic diseases?

In the United States, common chronic diseases and their risk factors include:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Arthritis
• Cancer
• Chronic lung and kidney diseases
• Depression
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Osteoporosis
• Prediabetes (high blood sugar) and diabetes
• Thyroid disorders

While there isn’t a cure for many of these chronic health conditions, early treatment and healthy lifestyle habits can control your disease and its symptoms.

What is the treatment for chronic diseases?

After reviewing your medical history and symptoms, performing a physical exam, and, if necessary, ordering lab or imaging tests, Krista confirms a chronic health condition. She then discusses your treatment options so you can live a long, fulfilling life.

Lifestyles changes

Sometimes simple dietary changes are all it takes to reduce chronic disease symptoms or prevent complications. Losing weight if you’re overweight, eating a well-balanced diet, becoming more active, and giving up smoking and alcohol is a good place to start.

Medications

Taking medications can help reduce chronic disease symptoms or prevent complications associated with the disease. For example, certain medications lower blood pressure and cholesterol, control blood sugar, and balance hormones.

Natural remedies

Natural remedies may also ease symptoms of chronic diseases. Examples include dietary supplements, massage, acupuncture, relaxation techniques, and chiropractic medicine. Krista can let you know if natural remedies are a good option for chronic disease management.

How can I prevent chronic diseases?

You can’t always prevent chronic diseases, especially if you’re genetically prone to them. But living a healthy lifestyle, maintaining a healthy weight, eating nutritious foods, and staying active can greatly reduce your risk.

When you’re ready for quality chronic disease management to ease symptoms or reduce complications associated with a long-lasting disease, call Seaside Wellness Primary Care or request an appointment online today.