Chronic Illnesses

 

There is a growing epidemic of chronic disease within the UK, related to smoking, unhealthy diets, physical activity & other risk factors. Although it is important to try to avoid having them in the first instance (Primary Prevention), it also important to monitor or try and prevent affected patients from getting worse (Secondary Prevention) so they can live longer. Diabetes, depending on its complexity may require GP-only or Hospital based management. Other gastro-enterological, dermatological or rheumatologically conditions requiring specialised drugs are managed by the hospital, but can have blood monitoring at a GP surgery.

 

 Diabetic appointments

Either nurse or doctor-led clinics

Diabetes is a particularly important condition as poor control can result in the condition causing kidney failure, blindness, heart attacks, stroke and gangrene. You will be contacted on an annual basis with an invitation to attend for review. 

  

Respiratory Clinic

Asthma and COPD

The Respiratory Clinics are run by our own nurses with a Special Interest in Respiratory Care. They keep their knowledge updated by regular reading and attending courses. The practice possesses its own Spirometer, to expertly assess Lung Function and assist in the diagnosis and management of the conditions. Asthma and COPD are the two main respiratory conditions monitored. Long term Oxygen therapy however is managed and initiated by Hospital Chest Clinic and their own team of specialist-nurses.  This again is by invitation and you will be contacted annually. 

 

INR Clinic (Anticoagulation)

The aim of the clinics is to detect any changes that may affect your health so correct treatment can be applied at an early stage. Monitoring includes yearly weight & urine check, blood pressure and discussions on diet, smoking and exercise. INR Clinics are held daily (except Friday) to monitor patients taking the anti-coagulant drug Warfarin. Warfarin is used to ‘thin’ blood in patients with an irregular heart rate, heart abnormalities or clotting disorders causing a thrombosis or a stroke.

 

DMARD Monitoring

DMARD’s are specialised drugs issued by Hospital gastroenterologist, rheumatologists or dermatologists for particular conditions. Due to their potential toxicity, they require regular blood tests to monitor and detect any adverse changes caused by them.

 


 

 

 
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