Chronic Disease Management

Endocrine and Metabolic Disease 

Endocrine disorders can be complicated to diagnose and treat. One hormone level can affect another. Health care providers at Alabama Family Medicine Clinic will refer a patient to a specialist when signs of endocrine disorder present in routine care. Following a specific diagnosis, management at AFM will include education, routine blood work /urinalysis and prescriptions required in treatment of the specific disease.


Endocrine disorders: osteoporosis, cystic fibrosis, hypothyroidism, obesity, diabetes. 


A network of organs and tissues produces our body's hormones called the endocrine system. These natural chemicals,(hormones) are made in specific locations within the body, released into the bloodstream, then used by specific organs and systems.


Hormones are responsible for controlling specific organs. Some organ systems have internal control systems along with or instead of hormones.


Changes occur as we age. Hormones become less effective, metabolize more slowly. The amount of hormone blood levels may increase, decrease or stay the same. Genetics also plays a role.


The most commonly treated endocrine disorder is diabetes, followed by Thyroid dysfunction. More rare are Addison's disease, acromegaly, and Cushing's syndrome.


Symptoms of endocrine disorders differ, but people commonly suffer from weakness and fatigue. 


Diagnosis is made when samples of blood and urine are tested for hormone levels. Sometimes imaging is required when looking for nodes or tumors as a cause.


Administration of synthetic hormones corrects the imbalance. When a noncancerous tumor causes symptoms, radiation therapy or surgery may be required. 

Heart Disease: Cardiovascular Investigation and Follow Up


Heart health is a primary concern for our patients at Alabama Family Medicine Clinic. Heart Disease continues to be prevalent in society due to genetics, lifestyle and personal health history. As we age, heart disease can influence our quality of life and disable independent functioning. Fortunately, advances in modern medicine allow for early diagnosis and specialized treatments that prolong our quality of life. 

 

During a physical exam, your health provider will ask about your personal and family medical history.


The physical exam, history and lifestyle, guide the Doctor to choose tests you will need to diagnose heart disease. A chest x-ray and blood work are standard, other tests include:


  • Electrocardiogram 
  • Echocardiogram
  • Stress test 
  • Cardiac catheterization 
  • Cardiac computerized tomography 
  • Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). 


Your Doctor will collaborate with the appropriate specialist who will evaluate you and help to decide on the most appropriate treatment for your condition. Your Doctor at Alabama Family Medicine Clinic will provide monitoring and follow-up to the treatment decided upon. 

Lung Disease Respiratory Ailments

Respiratory illness is a common reason to visit your healthcare provider. When you are concerned about your breathing, you should see your Doctor. While breathing discomfort may be a temporary condition that will resolve on its own or with medications, it may also be a symptom of other more severe diseases. Your Doctor will diagnose, treat and record your illness. After all, every breath counts! 


If your symptoms return repeatedly, it will be time to find the cause. A diagnosis will include your medical history and the results of testing. With correct diagnosis and treatment, your symptoms will subside but may return and require treatment again. 


Education about your diagnosis is the key to living well with a chronic respiratory condition. When you understand the disease process, you will understand prevention and treatment to keep your symptoms from becoming severe. Your Doctor and health care team have many ways they can help. Your Doctor may choose to work in conjunction with other specialists to manage chronic conditions.


Be open and honest about your symptoms. Sometimes we hesitate to share for many reasons, but the truth is that better outcomes are associated with early treatment. 

 

Your health care team can help you manage these respiratory illnesses;


  • Asthma
  • COPD
  • Cancer
  • Bronchitis
  • Cough and Common Cold
  • Covid-19
  • Cystic Fibrosis
  • Pleurisy
  • Pneumonia
  • Sleep Apnea
  • Tuberculosis

Hypertension

Hypertension is a significant health risk factor that can affect millions of people globally. Being diagnosed and treated correctly can help minimize the impact of this condition on quality of life. 


When left undiagnosed, this condition may worsen and cause heart or kidney problems.

Genetic factors and poor diet are associated with the cause of primary hypertension, which affects around 90% of people with high blood pressure.


Hypertension is most commonly diagnosed and treated in Family Practice Identified by a blood pressure monitor frequently used at each visit to your Doctor when readings are consistently beyond the normal range.

Hypertension Continued...

Readings greater than 140/90 will be treated to a target of less than 130/80 in an otherwise healthy adult. 


 Lifestyle changes and or medication are the treatments for hypertension. Changing your diet and reducing your weight can help lower your blood pressure. Other lifestyle changes can help also. Your Doctor will guide you through changes best suited to your situation, creating a treatment plan. 


Your health care team at Alabama Family Medicine Clinic wants to maximize support to help you reach your goals and may choose to make referrals to other services that can help. 



Early treatment is associated with better outcomes. 

 

Healthy heart, healthy life! 

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