Chronic Disease Management

Any medical condition that requires long-term care and prevents you from participating in normal activities like work or exercise is considered chronic. The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says chronic diseases are the leading cause of disability in America, accounting for $3.3 trillion dollars in health care costs every year. At Wellsprings Natural Healthcare in Belcourt, North Dakota, Cheryll Simmons, FNP-BC, MSN, MPH, regularly diagnoses and treats people living with chronic disease. If you dream of living a healthier life, call the office or request one online today. 

What is chronic disease management?

Chronic disease management is an integrated, holistic approach to treating disease that involves preventive measures, including regular screenings, check-ups, monitoring, and patient education. Chronic disease management also includes coordinated care between providers to relieve your symptoms, reduce the cost of health care, and improve your overall quality of life. 

Is there anything I can do to prevent chronic disease?

Unfortunately, there’s no way to prevent chronic disease entirely. However, there are steps you can take to significantly lower your risk. Cheryll recommends living a healthy and active lifestyle. This includes:

• Eating a well-balanced diet
• Exercising regularly
• Participating in preventive exams and screenings
• Getting plenty of sleep
• Managing your stress levels

You can also lower your risk of chronic disease by drinking plenty of water and avoiding bad habits like using tobacco products or drinking too much alcohol. 

What types of ailments does chronic disease management address?

At Wellsprings Natural Healthcare, Cheryll treats a variety of chronic diseases, including: 

Heart disease

Heart, or cardiovascular disease, is the most common chronic disease in the United States. If you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes, you’re also more likely to experience a heart attack or stroke. To manage your condition, Cheryll might recommend lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, in coordination with prescription medications to keep your numbers in check. 

Arthritis

There are over 100 different types of arthritis, a rheumatic illness that affects your joints and causes inflammation. Regular exercise, healthy eating, and certain prescription medications can ease pain and stiffness and improve your overall mobility. 

Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic disease defined by high blood sugar levels. If you have prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes, Cheryll might recommend dietary changes, weight-loss counseling, and regular exercise to prevent your symptoms from getting worse. However, if you have Type 1 diabetes, prescription medication, including insulin therapy, is necessary to prevent nerve damage and other problems.  

COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) describes three different respiratory ailments, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and refractory asthma. Cheryll can develop a treatment plan that helps you breathe more clearly, which might include inhalers or oral steroids to ease your symptoms.

If you’re living with a chronic disease, don’t wait to seek treatment. Call Wellsprings Natural Healthcare or request a chronic disease management consultation online today.