Nearly half the adults in the country are affected by some type of chronic illness. A quarter of these people have two or more chronic conditions with which to contend. Many of these illnesses can have debilitating effects on the individual and the family.

Treatment for many chronic illnesses may alleviate or minimize pain or some of the symptoms. Managing the illness to increase the quality of life and keep flare-ups or episodes to a minimum is part of the goal of treatment. This begins with an accurate diagnosis of the problem and creating a treatment plan that adequately addresses the illness and needs of the patient.

In cases where the patient has two or more chronic illnesses, proper diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan are even more important. There are times when a team approach is necessary to provide the best means of managing the illnesses and providing comfort for the patient. Dr. Brent J. Michael has experience in working with chronically ill patients and providing them with treatment plans that improve their quality of life.

Coping With Chronic Conditions

Chronic illness can be challenging to cope with unless you have a strong support system that includes your doctor. Learning about your illness and what you can do to help yourself is an important piece in constructing a coping strategy. Dr. Michael can provide you with information and resources so you can be well informed about the illness impacting your life.

Your doctor should be a partner in your care, but you need to be an advocate for yourself and do your part with self-care to ward off serious and unexpected complications. Your doctor will advise you on the steps you can take to monitor your illness and the changes or symptoms for which you should be on the lookout.

Take the team approach and make sure everyone has the same playbook. If you are working with multiple healthcare providers, it is important to keep them aware of one another. Dr. Michael can help coordinate your care and show you how to keep track of all the pieces.

Chronic illness can be made manageable under the right circumstances. Make an appointment today with Dr. Michael for your chronic illness. He can help you manage your illness with care.