Internal medicine is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and disorders that affect adults. Doctors who specialize in internal medicine, are trained to manage complex medical conditions and coordinate care across multiple healthcare providers.
While both internal medicine and family medicine doctors provide primary care services, internal medicine doctors focus exclusively on the care of adults, while family medicine doctors are trained to care for patients of all ages, including children and infants.
The frequency of physical exams can vary depending on your age, health status, and medical history. Generally, adults should get a physical exam at least once a year, although some individuals with certain medical conditions may require more frequent exams.
Common symptoms of diabetes may include increased thirst and hunger, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see an internal medicine doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Internal medicine doctors are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory illnesses, gastrointestinal disorders, and neurological conditions. They also provide preventive care services, such as routine check-ups, screenings, and immunizations.
Common diagnostic tests used in internal medicine include blood tests, imaging tests (such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs), electrocardiograms (ECGs), and stress tests.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common condition that can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems. Treatment may involve lifestyle modifications, such as changes in diet and exercise, as well as medications to lower blood pressure.
To reduce your risk of heart disease, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, quitting smoking, and getting regular check-ups to monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other cardiovascular risk factors.