Below are all the ways, that we help implement chronic disease management for long term conditions.
Diabetes
Type 1: Lack of insulin, usually starts in youth, requires insulin treatment
Type 2: Body becomes insulin resistant, often linked to obesity, may require diet, tablets, or insulin
Annual checks:
- Blood sugar control (HbA1c), kidney function, cholesterol, urine protein
- Every 6 months: Blood pressure check
- Annual comprehensive check: Weight, feet, nerves, circulation
- Annual eye screening for damage
Asthma
- Airways constriction causing wheezing, shortness of breath, cough
- Triggers: Exercise, dust, weather changes, infections
- Annual check: Symptom control, peak flow measurement, inhaler technique, trigger identification
COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- Permanent airway obstruction, often from smoking
- Annual check: Spirometry (lung function test), inhaler technique, breathlessness assessment
- Stopping smoking is crucial to slow progression
Ischaemic heart disease (IHD)
- Blocked arteries supplying heart, causing chest pain or exercise limitations
- Annual checks: Blood tests (glucose, cholesterol), weight, blood pressure
Hypertension (High blood pressure)
- Regular checks every 6 months for blood pressure
- Initial blood tests for cholesterol and glucose
Cerebrovascular disease (Stroke/TIA)
- Blood pressure checks every 6 months
- Annual blood tests for cholesterol and glucose
Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
- Monitoring kidney function decline
- Blood pressure checks every 6 months
- Annual urine protein check
Mental health
Annual check for patients on antipsychotics:
- Blood test
- Examination
- Discussion
Remember, regular monitoring and management are essential for controlling chronic conditions and reducing complications. Discuss any concerns with our healthcare team.