Chronic Disease Management

Chronic disease management involves managing the symptoms of long-term disease and multiple health conditions. By effectively managing disease, doctors can help to slow down its progression, control symptoms, and improve the quality of life for patients. At Prestige Primary Care in Hilton Head, South Carolina, adult family medicine and primary care specialist Rafael Sanchez, MD, offers excellent chronic disease management services and personalized care to patients of all ages and their families across the lifespan. Call the office to schedule an appointment or request one online today.

What does chronic disease management include?

Chronic disease management is an integrated care approach to managing illness and involves:

• Screenings
• Blood tests and other lab work
• Check-ups
• Blood pressure monitoring
• Glucose testing
• Coordinating treatment
• Medication management
• Lifestyle changes
• Patient Education

Knowing and understanding risk factors, such as family history, age, lifestyle choices, and other health conditions, can help take proactive measures to manage health effectively.

Who can benefit from chronic disease management?

Chronic disease management is best suited for patients with a chronic disease or condition. Individuals with multiple conditions might also benefit from these services. 

At Prestige Primary Care, your knowledgeable adult primary care and family medicine provider can help manage the following:

Arthritis

Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints, causing stiffness and pain that can worsen with age. 

Different types exist, each with varying causes, including wear and tear, infections, and underlying diseases.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic (long-lasting) health condition that affects how the body turns food into energy. It’s a group of diseases that result in too much sugar in the blood or high glucose.

Hypertension 

Hypertension (high blood pressure) occurs when the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently too high. It is typically measured using two numbers – systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

Regular blood pressure reading is usually around 120/80 mmHg. Hypertension is typically defined as a person having pressure consistently higher than 130/80 mmHg. 

Secondary hypertension

Secondary hypertension is caused by underlying conditions such as hormonal disorders and kidney disease. It can also be the result of medication side effects.

Obesity, sleep apnea, diabetes, and high cholesterol can also increase the risk of hypertension.

High cholesterol 

High cholesterol is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Often, this condition doesn’t have any apparent symptoms but can significantly increase a person’s risk of developing heart disease.

Understanding high cholesterol and taking steps to manage it is critical for maintaining good heart health. Adopting a heart-healthy diet, exercising regularly, taking prescribed medications, quitting smoking, managing other medical conditions, and monitoring cholesterol levels can significantly improve health and quality of life.

If you or a family member manages one or more health conditions or has a chronic disease, don’t delay. Call Prestige Primary Care and schedule an appointment today. Or request more information online, which is fast and easy.