More than 130 million Americans have chronic illnesses. There’s no cure for these conditions, but routine checkups and healthy lifestyle changes can reduce uncomfortable symptoms and improve your quality of life. At Serenity Healthcare, PLLC, family care provider Shanekwah Melville, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, offers chronic disease management to people of all ages. To make an appointment, call the office in Houston, Texas, or book online today.

book an appointment

What is chronic disease management?

Chronic disease management uses a combination of patient education, healthy lifestyle changes, and prescription medication to prevent incurable illnesses from getting worse.

By enrolling in chronic disease management, you can slow the progression of the disease, reduce the risk of other complications, and live a long and active life.

What conditions can benefit from chronic disease management?

At Serenity Healthcare, PLLC, Shanekwah uses chronic disease management to treat various conditions, including:

  • Arthritis
  • Asthma
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • Osteoporosis
  • Cystic fibrosis
  • Ulcerative colitis
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Kidney disease

You might also benefit from chronic disease management if you have a thyroid disorder.

When should I consider chronic disease management?

Consider enrolling in chronic disease management if you have an incurable illness and it causes stress-related symptoms, like:

  • Irritability
  • Relationship problems
  • Loss of interest in activities you love
  • Poor sleep
  • Body aches
  • Anxiety and tension

You might also benefit from chronic disease management if your symptoms keep you from work or other activities.

What happens during chronic disease management?

Chronic disease management treatment plans are unique in their own way.

Before making recommendations for treatment, Shanekwah reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms. Then, she conducts a physical exam and orders lab tests, including blood work, urinalysis, and diagnostic imaging.

After making a diagnosis, Shanekwah develops a custom treatment plan. Typically, it includes a combination of:

  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Exercising regularly
  • Avoiding negative coping mechanisms, like alcohol and drugs
  • Keeping your stress under control
  • Letting go of obligations that sap your energy
  • Prescription medication

It’s also important to visit Shanekwah at least twice a year. Routine visits to your primary care provider monitor your progress over time. If your symptoms change or worsen, Shanekwah makes adjustments as necessary.

Why is chronic disease management important?

Many people with chronic conditions feel isolated and alone. Chronic disease management teaches you how to remain active and healthy without sacrificing the things you love.

In addition, it presents an opportunity to learn about your condition, ask questions, and build a life-long relationship with Shanekwah. She coaches you the entire time, ensuring you achieve your desired results.

To request a chronic disease management consultation, make an appointment at Serenity Healthcare, PLLC by calling the office or booking online today.