How Can a Family Doctor Support My Health?
A family medicine doctor is your partner in health. Read on to learn the wide range of high-quality, personalized services that cover the full spectrum of medical care from prevention to treatment.
Managing Chronic Conditions: Tips for Living Well with Diabetes, Hypertension, and More
Living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and other long-term illnesses can be challenging. With the right strategies and support, you can manage these conditions effectively and maintain a good quality of life.
At South Plains Rural Health Services, we want to help you understand your condition, adhere to treatment plans, and make healthy lifestyle choices so you can live well, despite disease.
Read on for some of our best tips for living well with chronic conditions.
Understand your condition
It’s important for you to understand your condition thoroughly so you’re best equipped to manage it. We can help you know the symptoms, possible complications, and treatment options, whether it’s for diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Consult with us regularly, show up for scheduled appointments, and always reach out if you have questions.
Monitor your condition regularly
Monitoring your condition regularly is essential for you to prevent possible complications. For example, if you have diabetes, keep track of your blood sugar levels daily. If you have hypertension, remember to check your blood pressure regularly.
Many pharmacies and community health centers in rural areas offer free or low-cost screening services; you can also invest in a relatively inexpensive home blood pressure monitor or other at-home devices.
Maintain a log of your readings to help us track your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Adhere to your medication schedule
If you have prescribed medications for your chronic condition, please take them as directed. Set reminders to take your medication at the same time every day. Also, be sure you understand if you have medications that can’t be taken together or with certain foods or beverages.
If you have trouble affording your medication, talk to us about possible assistance programs or generic alternatives.
Eat a healthy diet
A balanced diet plays a large role in managing chronic conditions. Aim to consume plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit your consumption of processed foods, sugary beverages, and salt.
We can help you put together a diet that’s best for your condition, your preferences, and product availability in your area.
Get regular physical activity
Don’t underestimate how important daily physical activity is in supporting your overall health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or gardening. Physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight, lower blood pressure, improve blood sugar control, and reduce stress.
Develop stress management tools
Living with a chronic condition can be stressful, and stress can worsen symptoms. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy. You may also find you feel calmer when connecting with friends, family, or support groups.
Get your regular check ups
Routine medical check-ups are essential for managing chronic conditions. Even if you feel fine, we want you to come in so that we can catch potential issues early and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
If you need specific information about taking charge of your health and managing your chronic condition, reach out to one of our four offices. We're here to support you for every step of your health journey.
Call us, or use our online scheduling tool to make your appointment today.
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