4 Common Conditions Treated by Internal Medicine

internal medicine can treat a wide variety of conditions. Although the name implies that internal medicine doctors, also called internists, only treat internal problems, this is not the case. An internist is a primary doctor who can diagnose and treat the majority of conditions and diseases that adults have. Although an internist can treat numerous complex conditions, some common ones are treated more often.

Common conditions that internal medicine doctors treat

An internist can treat conditions that affect the general public as well as those that specifically target males or females. Whether it is an acute or chronic medical condition, an internal medicine doctor can recommend the most effective treatment plan based on a patient's individual needs.

1. Diabetes

Diabetes occurs when the body is resistant to insulin or does not produce enough of it to combat high sugar levels. The approach that an internist will take often depends on whether a patient has Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. With Type 1, a patient typically needs daily insulin injections, which the doctor can prescribe. For Type 2 diabetes, the doctor may recommend lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity or losing weight.

2. Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs that is caused by a viral or bacterial infection. People with weakened immune systems are also more prone to pneumonia if they get an upper respiratory infection or the flu. Symptoms related to pneumonia are typically fever, chest pain, chills, cough, and shortness of breath. An internal medicine practitioner will treat pneumonia based on the cause and may admit the patient to the hospital if more hands-on treatment and management are needed.

3. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the cartilage that cushions the ends of joints wears down. The result is that bones rub together, which can cause swelling, pain, and possibly a loss of motion. An internist will potentially prescribe medication to manage the inflammation and may also recommend other strategies to make more cartilage or manage the pain.

4. Menopause

Menopause occurs in women when hormone levels decline due to the fact the ovaries stop producing eggs. This condition results in a wide variety of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, mood swings, vaginal dryness, insomnia, urinary tract infections, and a decreased sex drive. 

Because of the wide range of symptoms, an internal medicine doctor may take a multifaceted approach to treatment. He or she may prescribe hormone replacement therapy to balance hormone levels, and he or she may also prescribe medication or other treatments to manage unwanted symptoms. 

Conclusion

An internal medicine doctor can treat most medical conditions in adults. An internist typically sees a patient in a private office setting, but he or she also has hospital privileges so treatment management can continue if a patient is hospitalized due to a medical condition.

If you are an adult and suffer from a specific medical condition or are experiencing unwanted symptoms, an internal medicine doctor can provide compassionate and personalized care. Call our office to set up an appointment today. 

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