Chronic Care Management
According to the CDC, chronic diseases are "defined broadly as conditions that last one year or more and require ongoing medical attention or limit activities of daily living or both. Chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes are the leading causes of death and disability in the United States."
Piedmont Internal Medicine will partner with you to screen for potential risk factors and provide support for chronic illness prevention. If you are diagnosed with a chronic illness, we will partner with you to diagnose, treat, and manage your chronic disease. A patient-specific treatment plan will be created using verified and trusted methods to help you reach the best level of health possible.
Piedmont Internal Medicine physicians specialize in the management of the following chronic illnesses:
- Cardiovascular Care
- Hyperlipidemia (High Cholesterol)
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Diabetes
- Additional Chronic Conditions including cancer, chronic lung disease, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease
Hyperlipidemia (High Cholesterol)
Hyperlipidemia (High Cholesterol) is an abnormally high concentration of fats or lipids in the blood, leading to heart disease and stroke. The risk factors for high cholesterol is a family history of the disease, unhealthy lifestyle, and other health conditions such as obesity. High cholesterol can be managed by improving eating habits, not smoking, and, if necessary, appropriate medication.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) is classified as abnormally high blood pressure; prolonged high blood pressure can lead to heart disease and stroke. The risk factors for high blood pressure include health conditions, lifestyle, and family history. Hypertension can be improved by improving eating habits, weight management, and, if necessary, appropriate medication.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease in which the body's ability to produce or respond to the hormone insulin is impaired, resulting in abnormal metabolism of carbohydrates and elevated levels of glucose in the blood and urine. There are two types of Diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2.
Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes results from an immune reaction, and the main risk factors for Type 1 diabetes is a family history of the disease. Unfortunately, there is no proven prevention for Type 1 diabetes at this time, but there are many safe and effective medications used to manage this disease.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes has several risk factors such as a diagnosis of prediabetes, obesity, diagnosis of non-alcohol related fatty liver, and family history. A healthy lifestyle manages type 2 diabetes and, if needed, medication.
Coordination of Care for Chronic Conditions
Additionally, Piedmont Internal Medicine plays an active role in coordinating the care and treatment for our patients who have been diagnosed with other leading chronic care conditions such as cancer, chronic lung disease, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease. Our physicians will ensure you are connected with the lead specialist in our community for these conditions.
