Chronic Illness
DIABETES
If you have diabetes, we would like to see you on a regular basis (about every 6 months) to ensure that your condition is stable and keep a track on your other risk factors. Our Nurse Practitioner runs a specific clinic.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
If you have COPD you will be invited to see our Nurse Practitioner (who also runs this clinic) on a regular basis.
ISCHAEMIC HEART DISEASE (This covers angina and heart attacks)
We run a programme to prevent recurrence and we have certain standards that we are aiming for with your treatment eg:
- STOP SMOKING! This is by far the most important risk factor
- Blood pressure should be less than 140/80
- Cholesterol less than 5 mmol/l
- Be on Asprin
- Take regular exercise
Clearly some of these may be difficult to achieve; please feel free to discuss your care at your next appointment.
ASTHMA
We aim to treat people with asthma to get them as free of symptoms as possible.
Warning signs of loss of control are
- Shortness of breath on exercise
- Cough often worse at night
- Using your blue inhaler more than 5 times a week.
If you wish to discuss your asthma management please make an appointment with your doctor or the practice nurse. (Please bring your inhalers).
Even if you are happy with how things are please book in at least every year or so, we can update your medication as things change with time.
MENTAL HEALTH
We have good links with the local mental health team.
Depression is a common problem and often goes unrecognised; if you feel that you are depressed please tell us.
PATIENT INFORMATION LEAFLETS
We have access to a wide variety of information leaflets and details of self help groups. Please ask if you would like to take information away with you.