Being diagnosed with a chronic disorder can result in stress and depression, which only cause the condition to deteriorate. Some chronic diseases are not preventable because their cause is unknown or they are genetic. Although most of these chronic conditions San Antonio have no cure, you can take certain steps to prevent progression, helping you lead a healthy, satisfactory life.
How chronic illnesses can affect your health
Chronic conditions have disease-specific symptoms but some share symptoms such as mood disorders, fatigue, and pain. If you have a chronic disease, fatigue and pain may become a part of your life. Along with the unpleasant symptoms, you may have to commit yourself to healthy exercise routines and medications to manage and prevent the disease from deteriorating. You may also experience several physical changes that may significantly affect your self-confidence. You may also withdraw from social activities and friends when you don’t feel attractive, leading to mood disorders like depression. A chronic illness may also interfere with your performance at school or work. However, your South Texas Family Medicine and Urgent Care Center provider can help you cope with decreased range of motion and morning stiffness improving your quality of life.
How to manage a chronic illness
Although chronic illnesses are a lifelong struggle, you can actively prevent future complications and manage the condition. The following are tips for managing chronic illnesses:
- Manage blood pressure
High blood pressure elevates your risk of life-threatening complications like stroke and heart disease. Your doctor may educate you about how blood pressure can interfere with your heart’s functioning and general health. The South Texas Family Medicine and Urgent Care Center specialists may partner with you to monitor and manage high blood pressure, improving your quality of life.
- Monitor cholesterol levels
High cholesterol levels increase your risk of cardiovascular diseases. Minimizing your cholesterol intake can significantly improve your general health and slow the progression of chronic disease. Your doctor may help you make a few lifestyle adjustments, like incorporating exercise into your daily routine and eating a healthy diet.
- Quit smoking
Whether you have a chronic disease or not, smoking never leads to a positive outcome as it increases your risk of cardiovascular disorders and accelerates the progression of underlying chronic illnesses. Studies show that quitting smoking relieves symptoms of respiratory diseases and relieves depression symptoms, improving your mood and quality of life.
- Get active
About 80% of adolescents and adults live a sedentary lifestyle that doesn’t involve physical activity. In addition to enhancing your general health, physical activity can improve chronic disease symptoms and your range of motion. It can also help you function, sleep and feel better about yourself. Medical experts recommend at least 75 minutes of intense physical activity every week.
Although physical health is important, emotional and psychological health is also essential in managing a chronic disease. You may need to develop a positive spiritual and emotional outlook on life, as negativity never results in a positive outcome. The South Texas Family Medicine and Urgent Care Center are willing to support and provide the necessary resources to improve your health and quality of life.
Call the South Texas Family Medicine and Urgent Care Center office for comprehensive care, or schedule an appointment online.
