Other chronic conditions

A chronic condition is a condition that lasts three months or longer. Chronic conditions require a lifetime of management and treatment. Although chronic conditions tend to be more common in older people, it can affect anyone from any age group.

Some chronic conditions increase the risk of getting autoimmune or musculoskeletal conditions, and vice versa. As both a Physician and Rheumatologist, Dr Abrahams is well equipped to treat and manage these conditions before they lead to more serious conditions. 

Types of chronic conditions

Dr Abrahams specialises in treating the following conditions:

Diabetes

People with Type 1 diabetes (an autoimmune disorder) are more likely to have a co-occurring autoimmune disorder. An autoimmune disease causes your immune system to see your body’s own tissue as foreign invaders and attacks itself. So, if you have Type 1 diabetes, your body mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing (beta) cells in your body. Insulin injections are usually recommended for diabetes. 

HIV

HIV-positive individuals are at higher risk for various autoimmune diseases when compared with the general population. This is why it’s important to manage HIV effectively. Treatment includes taking antiretroviral drugs on a daily basis.

Hypertension

Hypertension (high blood pressure) can lead to severe health complications and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, are associated with an increased risk for hypertension and cardiovascular disease. The type of medication we prescribe for high blood pressure depends on your blood pressure measurements and overall health. Two or more blood pressure drugs may work better than one. Sometimes finding the most effective medication or combination of drugs is a matter of trial and error.

Treatment for chronic conditions

Living with a chronic condition can prove to be quite stressful and difficult, but proper treatment will reduce the stress and symptoms associated with it. Dr Abrahams believes that a combination of smart lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, eating healthy food, along with appropriate medications are the best way to successfully manage your chronic illness. He works closely with his patients to help reduce symptoms and help them feel their old selves again.