Chronic Disease Management Specialist

Half of all adults in the United States suffer from a chronic disease or condition. If you are one of the millions who suffer from a chronic illness, consistent monitoring is paramount in keeping your condition manageable, which is where Dr. René F. Cruz will help. Dr. Cruz has extensive experience treating patients with chronic diseases in the Orlando area at his Maitland, Florida, practice, and he and his staff will ensure you get the oversight you need.
(407)644-4595

Chronic Disease Management Q & A

What is a chronic disease?

According to the United States National Center for Health Statistics, a chronic disease is defined as an illness that persists for three months or more. And according to the Center for Disease Control, as of 2012, about half of all adults—117 million people—had one or more chronic health conditions, and one in four adults had two or more chronic health conditions.

Chronic diseases are incurable, and there are no vaccines to combat their onset, but good management of a chronic disease can go a long way toward improving your condition, preventing complications, and treating any side effects you may be experiencing.

What are the most common chronic diseases?

Hundreds of diseases can be classified as chronic, but the main culprits are:

  • Osteoarthritis: the number one reason for disability in America
  • Cardiovascular disease: High blood pressure, heart failure, artery and vein health, high cholesterol
  • Cancer: the second most common cause of death in the United States
  • Diabetes: almost 30% of the U.S. population has diabetes
  • Obesity: one in three Americans is considered obese
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder: COPD
  • Depression: a common side effect of chronic illness, if not a primary diagnosis
  • Alzheimer’s disease: family counseling and progression management
  • Stroke: recovery and therapy

Many other diseases and conditions may be considered chronic, and Dr. Cruz will sit down with you to discuss your condition and efficient ways you can manage and improve your health.

How do you manage chronic diseases?

Proper management of chronic diseases is critical for your quality of life. While chronic conditions may not be cured, they can be improved—or their effects greatly minimized—with good management. Dr. Cruz and his staff will perform several critical functions in managing your condition, such as:

  • Tracking your health through regular exams
  • Suggesting lifestyle and behavior modifications
  • Nutrition and exercise counseling
  • Specialist referrals
  • Addressing side effects as they arise

One of the most important functions that Dr. Cruz will perform is to monitor any signs of complications from your chronic disease. As a trained internist and diagnostician, Dr. Cruz can spot warning signs long before they become a major problem, helping you to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.