If you want to be proactive about your health, it’s wise to visit an internist regularly. An internist (also known as an internal medicine physician) is a doctor who focuses specifically on the unique needs and health risks adults face. In fact, internists are seen as the “doctor’s doctor” because other doctors often ask internists for help when they have puzzling diagnostic problems.
Internists usually choose a subspecialty after residency training. However, regardless of their specialty, they have in-depth knowledge about common health concerns in adults, including acute illnesses, chronic diseases and preventive care.
Our internists in Northwest Indiana discuss three important questions you should ask on your next visit. Asking these questions can help you understand more about your health and how to take better care of yourself.
Question 1. How can I eat healthy?
Diet plays a big role in your overall health. It has a direct impact on your weight, but it can also increase your risk for chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. Your internist in Northwest Indiana can give you advice based on your health history, current health and specific dietary needs. They may help you come up with ways to reduce saturated fats and sugars in your diet, and suggest the nutrients you need.
It’s important to be honest about what you eat on a typical day and communicate your health goals, such as losing weight naturally or lowering high blood pressure. Your internist can then give you an eating plan to help you achieve your goals.
Question 2. Am I at risk for anything?
You should also talk to your internist about what health problems you might be more likely to have. Factors like your age, gender, family health history, lifestyle and genes or ethnicity may make you more susceptible to certain diseases as you age.
For example, the aging and elderly population have higher risks for cardiovascular disease, while African American, African Caribbean and South Asian backgrounds have a higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes compared to other populations. Knowing about these risks early can help you get timely treatment.
Your internist will perform a physical exam and provide advice to lower your risk through lifestyle medicine, exercise, diet and lifestyle modification.
Question 3. What is making me feel sick?
It is normal to ask your internist, “What is making me feel sick?” especially when you feel something is wrong with your health. Many people avoid the doctor unless they feel it is necessary. This is typically because they fear the doctor will find something seriously wrong or they think they can self-diagnose. However, it’s important to tell your internist if you have any symptoms that don’t go away (or get worse), like a cough, fatigue or insomnia. These symptoms can sometimes lead to early diagnosis of more serious conditions. An internist in Northwest Indiana can make a precise diagnosis by performing tests and offer the best treatment solutions based on your unique situation.
Looking for an Affordable Internal Medicine Specialist in Northwest Indiana?
When you visit your internist, it’s important to ask these three questions outlined above to ensure you remain healthy and strong. Are you ready to meet with an affordable internal medicine specialist in Northwest Indiana who can provide the answers to any of your health-related questions? If so, our team at 219 Health Network is here to help. Our internists recognize that each person is different, which is why we take the time to listen to your situation before offering our recommendations. Contact us today at 833-219-0001 to get started.