Primary Care Is Important To Overall Health
8/3/2022
Creating a plan with your provider is key to better health at all stages of life
It’s never too soon to consider how health can impact your quality of life and your future. It’s important to have a relationship with a primary care provider at every stage of life and to make – and keep – your well-visit appointments.
Christen Ground, D.O., a family medicine physician on the medical staff at AllianceHealth Ponca City, says, “Everyone should have a well visit with a doctor at least once a year. More frequent office visits are required for patients that have chronic medical problems. Well visits are a great opportunity to address preventative medical items such as pap smears, colonoscopies and mammograms. As the old adage goes "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure."
Factors like genetics are beyond your control. However, healthy lifestyle choices and identifying and managing the following chronic conditions can help to increase your odds of living a long, healthy life.
Type 2 Diabetes
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports more than 37 million Americans have diabetes, and 90-95% have type 2. The symptoms are hard to spot, and your risk increases with age. Type 2 diabetes can cause other serious conditions like heart disease, kidney disease or vision loss if left untreated. Regular checkups can help identify the disease early on.
High Blood Pressure
While a systolic (top) reading of 120 or less is normal, 120 to 129 is elevated, 130 to 139 is hypertension stage 1, and 140 or higher is hypertension stage 2. This condition often shows no symptoms and plays a significant role in your chances for heart attacks, heart failure and strokes. Your doctor can help you develop a plan to lower your numbers, including diet, exercise or medication.
Heart Disease
Heart disease includes several heart conditions, including coronary artery disease, valvular issues and heart failure. Symptoms vary for these conditions, but all increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Your doctor can perform diagnostic tests, advise lifestyle changes or prescribe medication for treatment.
Depression
According to the CDC, depression affects about 16 million adults every year (one in six). The condition can affect how you feel, act and think. Counseling, medicine or other forms of treatment can help. If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, talk with your doctor about options and a treatment plan.
Arthritis
Around 58.5 million adults have arthritis—and 60% are younger than 64. Almost one in four adults develop joint pain, stiffness and swelling related to this condition. Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in America, but your doctor can help diagnose and identify treatment options. Management of arthritis can reduce or manage pain, minimize joint damage and improve functionality.
To find an appointment, visit AlliancePoncaPCP.com or call (580) 219-4933.
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