Primary care is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and nonsurgical treatment of diseases and conditions that affect the human body. It is a vital part of our healthcare system, as it is the first point of contact for patients seeking medical care. That is why it is advisable to speak to Dr. Andrew Chow if you feel unwell.
Here are some common primary care diagnoses that you should be aware of:
Diabetes mellitus
It is a group of metabolic disorders characterized by the lack of insulin in the body, leading to excess blood sugar levels. Diabetes mellitus is a leading cause of death worldwide.
Some of the symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. If left untreated, diabetes mellitus can lead to severe complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Hypertension
It is a condition that is characterized by high blood pressure. Hypertension is a risk factor for several other conditions, such as heart disease and stroke. Your doctor will likely diagnose you with hypertension if you have symptoms such as headaches, nosebleeds, and shortness of breath
Heart disease
Heart disease is a broad category that encompasses several conditions that affect the health and performance of the heart. These include coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, and more.
You need to know about chest pain, shortness of breath, and irregular heartbeat. Heart disease can lead to serious complications such as heart failure and death if left untreated.
Cancer
Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by the abnormal growth of cells in the body. There are many different types of cancer, with the most common being breast cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer.
Some symptoms include a lump or mass in the body, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. If left untreated, cancer can be fatal.
Stroke
A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, usually due to a blood clot. It can lead to severe complications such as paralysis and cognitive impairment.
Your doctor will likely diagnose you with stroke if you have sudden weakness or numbness in one arm, difficulty speaking, or confusion. Prompt treatment for stroke is essential to reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
It is a group of lung conditions characterized by the obstruction of airflow in the lungs. COPD is a leading cause of death worldwide. Your doctor at Triad Primary Care will likely diagnose you with COPD when they notice shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing. If left untreated, COPD can lead to respiratory failure and death.
Depression
Depression is a mental health condition characterized by sadness, loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities, sleep disturbances, and more. You need to know the common symptoms: loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite, and sleep disturbances. If left untreated, depression can lead to severe complications such as suicide.
These are just some of the common diagnoses you may encounter in primary care. It is essential to be aware of these conditions to seek treatment early if you experience any symptoms. If you have any concerns, be sure to speak to your doctor.
