Everything You Need to Know About Internal Medicine

Physicians, sometimes called internists or internists, are specialists in complexity. They specialize in adult medicine and are specially trained to address diagnostic issues, treat serious long-term conditions, and help patients with multiple complex chronic conditions. They provide comprehensive, long-term patient care. They have lifelong relationships with their adult patients and their recommendations are based on each patient’s circumstances.
 
Their in-depth training and knowledge of the entire human body and its organ systems give them a unique perspective on how everything works together. They analyze, consider, and connect multiple data sets and identify solutions for optimal health outcomes. Physicians are known as “physicians’ doctors” because they are often consulted by other medical professionals for their ability to connect the dots and help solve problems. Her expertise makes her vital to both patients and healthcare professionals.

Medical specialties can be confusing to navigate, especially when it comes to understanding the differences between general medicine and internal medicine. Both specialties are essential to maintaining the overall health of patients, but their focus and approach differ significantly.
 
General medicine is a broad medical specialty that focuses on the overall health of patients. General practitioners are often referred to as primary care physicians, as they are the first point of contact for patients seeking medical care. General medicine practitioners treat a wide range of common illnesses, including colds, flu, skin rashes, and injuries. They also focus on preventative care, such as regular check-ups and screenings, to maintain the health and well-being of their patients.
 
General medicine practitioners work with patients across all age groups, from newborns to the elderly. They are equipped with a broad knowledge of the human body and its functions, enabling them to diagnose and treat common illnesses effectively. General practitioners also provide ongoing care for chronic conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and hypertension, to ensure that their patients maintain good health and avoid complications.
 
Internal medicine is a medical specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of complex medical conditions that affect internal organs and systems, such as the heart, lungs, kidneys, and digestive system. Internal medicine practitioners, also known as internists, undergo extensive training that equips them with the knowledge and skills to manage complex medical conditions. They often work in hospitals and clinics, where they diagnose and treat patients with severe medical conditions that require specialized care.
 
Internal medicine practitioners also provide primary care to adults, often serving as primary care physicians for patients with chronic medical conditions. They work closely with other medical specialists to provide comprehensive care to patients, coordinating care across different specialties to ensure that patients receive the best possible treatment.
 
While both general medicine and internal medicine are essential to maintaining the overall health of patients, they differ in their scope and approach. General medicine practitioners focus on the health and well-being of patients across all age groups, providing preventative care, diagnosis, and treatment of common illnesses. Internal medicine practitioners, on the other hand, specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of complex medical conditions affecting internal organs and systems.

Chronic diseases tend to be present, so many physician patients are often an older population. Many physicians’ patients struggle with conditions such as diabetes, COPD, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, kidney problems, endocrine problems, blood disorders, and even infectious diseases.
 
Physicians tend to have more in-depth training in internal organs and internal processes. They only see adults.

What happens when you go to your physician depends on your cause.
 
The doctor will check your vital signs. They will review your medical history and medication list. Your physician will ask about your symptoms and general health. Your doctor will usually do a physical examination of you. Doctors want to have a complete picture of your health.
 
As part of your physical exam, your physician will usually:
 
• Consider your general appearance, including your posture and movement
• Listen to your heart to look for heart murmurs, irregular heartbeats, or other unusual sounds
• Listen for crackles, wheezing, or shortness of breath
• check your eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and throat
• Check your skin and nails.
 
For a health check, a doctor may order screening tests, such as a B. lipid panel or a bone density test. For specific concerns, the doctor will order the appropriate tests, whether it is a simple urinalysis or more complex tests such as imaging tests. You may be asked to come back for a follow-up appointment, or your doctor may recommend that you see another specialist.
 
If you see another specialist, your internist can consult with your other doctors, coordinate your treatment, and check for drug interactions. The best internists are proactive and can advise you on lifestyle changes and steps you can take to avoid future problems. They will also look for mental health issues, such as depression.
 
Call 9-1-1 immediately if you think you may need emergency medical treatment like if you passed out or lost consciousness. Watch closely for any changes in your health and contact your doctor if you start to see any negative changes in your health. Come to Mercy Medical Clinic today. Our doctor of family medicine is dedicated to delivering the highest quality service at each visit, for every patient and can help you live a better quality of life. Call us today to book an appointment with our family medicine doctor; we look forward to serving you! We accept patients from Wylie TX, Lavon TX, Rockwall TX, Sachse TX, Allen TX, Winningkoff TX, and nearby areas.