Chronic Disease Management

More than 76% of adults in the United States have at least one chronic disease, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease. At ThriveWell Health and Wellness, PLLC, in Washington, North Carolina, family nurse practitioner Stephanie Mills Wynn, FNP-C, provides outstanding chronic disease management to help you avoid serious disease-related complications. Schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment by calling the office or booking a visit online today.

What is chronic disease management?

Chronic disease management often involves lifestyle changes, medication management, and sometimes medical procedures that help you effectively manage a chronic (long-term) disease. 

Stephanie tailors chronic disease management plans offering fewer unpleasant symptoms, exceptional health outcomes, and a better overall quality of life. She’s here to support you through your journey toward optimal health and well-being. 

Which conditions can chronic disease management help address?

Chronic disease management at ThriveWell Health and Wellness, PLLC, can help treat the following conditions and more:

• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Heart disease
• Thyroid disorders
• Asthma
• Allergies
• Arthritis
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Autoimmune disorders 
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Osteoporosis
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Hormone imbalances 
• Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions 

It’s common to have more than one chronic disease at the same time. In fact, more than half of adults in the United States have two or more long-term diseases.   

What are the symptoms of chronic diseases?

The following symptoms could indicate a chronic disease:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Increased thirst or urination
• Unexplained weight loss
• Slow-healing wounds
• Frequent infections
• Joint pain 
• Other types of ongoing pain
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Numbness or tingling
• Constant fear, sadness, or mood swings
• Problems concentrating
• Difficulty sleeping 

However, not all chronic diseases cause symptoms, especially initially. When undetected and untreated, however, they may increase your risk of a heart attack, stroke, and other life-threatening conditions. 

Who may need chronic disease management?

Anyone at risk of a chronic disease may be a candidate for chronic disease management. Your chance of developing a disease increases with age, family history of chronic conditions, and certain lifestyle habits. 

For example, poor diet, lack of exercise, insufficient sleep, smoking, obesity, and excess alcohol consumption could boost your chance of having a chronic disease. 

What can I expect during chronic disease management?

Your personalized chronic disease treatment plan is based on your diagnosis, the severity of your condition, and your health history. Stephanie also discusses your symptoms, lifestyle, treatment preferences, and risk factors. 

She completes a physical exam and may order blood testing, heart function tests, allergy tests, or lung function testing. You might need X-rays or other imaging procedures to confirm a diagnosis and create an effective solution. 

Your chronic disease management plan may consist of:

• Diet and other healthy lifestyle changes
• Stress management
• Dietary supplements
• Medications
• Medical weight loss
• Injections 
• Medical procedures
• Specialist referrals 

Stephanie follows up to ensure your chronic disease management plan works as designed. She can make any adjustments if necessary.

Schedule a chronic disease management visit at ThriveWell Health and Wellness, PLLC, by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.