Chronic Conditions

Up to 133 million Americans have chronic conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. At FirstPointMD in the Floral Park neighborhood of Long Island in New York, experienced primary care physician Ravin Patel, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating chronic conditions in people of all ages. Dr. Patel uses patient education, routine checkups, and prescription medication to prevent chronic conditions from worsening so you always feel your best. Call FirstPointMD today to schedule treatment for a chronic condition, or book your appointment online.

What are chronic conditions?

Chronic conditions are diseases or disorders that last for three months or longer. They require ongoing medical care and affect your quality of life. Without intervention and treatment, chronic conditions worsen. That can affect your relationships, ability to work, and general health.

At FirstPointMD, Dr. Patel specializes in chronic disease management. His extensive knowledge and expertise equip him to treat chronic conditions effectively. 

What are some examples of chronic conditions?

At FirstPointMD, Dr. Patel treats various chronic conditions, including:

• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• High cholesterol
• Thyroid disease
• Kidney disease
• Arthritis
• Asthma

Certain chronic behavioral conditions include depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. 

How are chronic conditions treated?

At FirstPointMD, Dr. Patel treats chronic conditions using a multi-faceted approach. He develops personalized chronic disease management plans that include:

Lifestyle guidance

A chronic condition affects every aspect of your life, from your mood and energy levels to your ability to perform routine tasks. Though most chronic conditions can’t be cured, there are things you can do to reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life. Often, that includes improved nutrition, regular exercise, stress relief activities, and relationship building.

Prescription medication

Most chronic conditions require at least one prescription medication. For example, if you have type 1 diabetes, Dr. Patel prescribes insulin therapy to prevent your blood sugar from spiking. 

Since taking multiple medications increases your risk of negative interactions, Dr. Patel offers medication management. Medication management monitors your use of prescription and over-the-counter medications to ensure safety and optimal efficacy.

Routine checkups and screenings

Chronic conditions usually worsen over time. Routine checkups and screenings monitor your symptoms and help Dr. Patel make treatment adjustments. These checkups also present a chance to ask questions and discuss concerns about your health.

Is there any way to prevent chronic conditions?

There’s no way to prevent chronic disease entirely, but there are steps you can take to significantly lower your risk. Dr. Patel recommends eating a balanced diet, exercising for at least 30 minutes daily, and sleeping 7-9 hours each night. These practices can bolster your immune system and help you feel your best. 

Call FirstPointMD today to receive treatment for a chronic condition, or book your appointment online.