When Is A North Carolina Internal Medicine Practitioner The Best Choice

By Michael Hayes


A lot of people have the mistaken idea that professionals who specialize in certain areas are more skilled than those who don't. Although it is true that certain individuals prefer to concentrate on one area of business, it does not make them more valuable than their counterparts who offer general services. You may have to hire more than one accountant for your business or list a commercial property with one Realtor and a residential one with another. Your family dentist may recommend a orthodontist for your children and a periodontist for your diseased gums, but East Coast residents can still find North Carolina internal medicine practitioners who can help them with a variety of ailments and diseases.

Most internist practices are limited to adults and their diseases and illnesses. Since heart disease is the number one killer of adults, many of these practitioners find themselves treating patients with all kinds of heart conditions. Internists prescribe medications that help keep the disease contained for as long as possible. They counsel patients about lifestyle choices that can worsen their condition.

Respiratory diseases can range from lung issues affecting smokers and nonsmokers, bronchial tube problems, or any other ailment that impedes the breathing process. Internists often order medical tests to gauge the extent or progression of these illnesses. They may also order blood and lab work that can give them a clearer picture of the patient's situation.

When they have patients come into their offices complaining of tiredness, excessive hunger and thirst combined with weight loss, or frequent urination they will test for diabetes. This is one of the most common diseases affecting today's society, and it has varying degrees of severity. Depending on the test results, doctors may recommend specific medications and blood monitoring. They are also aware of the importance of diet and exercise when it comes to managing this disease successfully.

Other ailments relating to the endocrine system include pancreatitis and thyroid and adrenal gland problems. Stress and tension can make these conditions much worse. Internists often order medications to alleviate the symptoms, but also prescribe exercise and healthy diets to reduce the underlying causes of these diseases. Patients whose conditions do not improve are usually referred to an endocrinologist.

Neurological diseases can be tricky, and some internists do not handle patients with these types of conditions. Others work with geriatric patients who suffer from Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, or have epilepsy. To date, these are incurable diseases, but there have been advances in medicines to slow the progression and reduce the symptoms.

People with chronic acid reflux, ulcers, kidney problems, and arthritis often have internists as their primary care physicians. Others with joint, kidney, and digestive issues also consult internists. Many doctors treat these ailments successfully with a combination of medication, special diets, and exercise regimes.

Most adults have various ailments over the years that an experienced internist can treat successfully. This is a vital area of medicine and should not be underestimated.




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