Most people think that chronic diseases develop in their adult years, but 10-30% of children are diagnosed with long-lasting health conditions. At Pediatric Associates at Ridge in McAllen, Texas, Maria Hoffman-Guardia, MD, offer chronic medical condition management, a specialized service providing comprehensive care for your child’s chronic health condition. Chronic medical condition management is essential for giving your child the chance to enjoy a long, thriving life. To learn more about managing your child’s health, call the office or request an appointment online today.
Chronic health conditions include a wide range of diseases, physical disabilities, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and behavioral health disorders. Most last a lifetime, though some dramatically improve with treatment.
Chronic health problems that commonly affect children include:
Some of these conditions cause symptoms that limit your child’s physical, mental, and cognitive abilities. Others don’t cause symptoms for many years, but during that time, they persistently damage your child’s body.
Chronic diseases have two distinct qualities: They can’t be cured with today’s treatments, and they usually progress as your child gets older. They also take a toll on your child’s mental health, emotional well-being, and self-esteem.
Chronic medical condition management refers to the comprehensive treatment your child needs to control their symptoms, slow or stop disease progression, and learn the skills they need to manage their disease.
Chronic disease management focuses on controlling the underlying condition while also improving your child’s symptoms and supporting their overall health.
As a general guideline, chronic medical condition management includes:
Most children need holistic care incorporating several services. Here’s one example. Children with Type 1 diabetes must keep their blood sugar within the healthy range. When diabetes isn’t controlled, high blood sugar damages their nerves and blood vessels, leading to serious health complications.
Lifestyle measures are essential for controlling blood sugar. Your child needs to follow a diet that doesn’t cause a spike in blood sugar, get regular exercise (which lowers blood sugar), and lose weight if needed (excess weight worsens diabetes).
Additionally, children with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin and regularly monitor their blood sugar levels.
That’s a lot for parents and children to handle. Pediatric Associates at Ridge makes it easier with their support and chronic medical condition management.
Call Pediatric Associates at Ridge today or use the online booking feature to schedule an appointment and learn more about managing your child’s health.