Chronic Disease Management

What is chronic disease management?

Chronic disease management consists of medical evaluations, diagnostic testing, and treatments for the chronic (ongoing) medical conditions that many Americans face. He uses lifestyle education, medication, and other treatments to minimize bothersome symptoms and reduce your risk of severe medical complications.

What are examples of chronic diseases?

Common chronic diseases include:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• High cholesterol (hyperlipidemia)
• Heart disease
• Osteoporosis
• Arthritis
• Allergies
• Asthma
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Cancer
• Obesity
• Thyroid disorders and other hormone imbalances
• Depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders

One in six Americans have at least one chronic disease, while four in 10 have two or more.

What are the symptoms of chronic diseases?

Not all chronic diseases cause symptoms, especially in their earliest phases. However, you might experience:

• Fatigue
• Frequent urination
• Weight loss or gain
• Mood changes
• Joint pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Allergic reactions

You could also experience new or unusual symptoms as a disease gets worse.

What can I expect during chronic disease management?

When Dr. Grenardo meets with you, he weighs you, checks your blood pressure and other vital signs, completes a physical exam, evaluates your overall health, and screens for chronic diseases or determines how well you’re managing a previously diagnosed disease.

You might need a mental health evaluation, blood work, or other diagnostic tests to determine the appropriate treatment. Standard treatments for chronic diseases include:

• Diet, sleep, and exercise changes
• Stopping smoking
• Stress management 
• Medically supervised weight loss
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Other mental health services
• Medication management
• Injections
• Inhalers
• Allergy shots

If you need a medical procedure due to a chronic disease complication, Dr. Grenardo will refer you to the appropriate specialist.

He follows up every few months or as needed to ensure that you’re effectively managing your disease. OG Health’s concierge medicine-style primary care practice offers 24/7 support, no long patient waits, same-day and next-day appointments, telemedicine options, and home visits when necessary. Dr. Grenardo is always available to address your questions or concerns. 

Schedule an in-person or virtual chronic disease management visit with Dr. Grenardo at OG Health by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.