General Medicine

Commonly seen disorders under general medicine:

1. Hypertension: Chronic elevation of blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
2. Diabetes Mellitus: A metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance or deficiency, leading to complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, and nerves.
3. Hyperlipidemia: Elevated levels of lipids in the blood, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
4. Asthma: A chronic respiratory disorder causing wheezing, breathlessness, and chest tightness due to airway inflammation and hyperreactivity.
5. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A progressive lung disease characterized by airflow limitation, commonly caused by smoking.
6. Heart Failure: A condition where the heart cannot pump sufficiently to maintain blood flow to meet the body's needs, leading to symptoms like fatigue and edema.
7. Anemia: A deficiency in red blood cells or hemoglobin, resulting in fatigue, weakness, and pallor; can be caused by various factors including iron deficiency or chronic diseases.

1. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): A chronic digestive condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and potential damage to the esophageal lining.
2. Thyroid Disorders: Includes hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, affecting metabolism and leading to various systemic effects.
3. Infectious Diseases: Such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections, caused by pathogens and often requiring antimicrobial treatment.

When to consult a general medicine specialist:

1. Persistent Fever: Unexplained fever lasting more than a few days can indicate infection or other serious conditions.
2. Chronic Fatigue: Unexplained fatigue that doesn't improve with rest may signal metabolic disorders, anemia, or chronic illnesses.
3. Unintended Weight Loss: Losing weight rapidly without trying or altering diet can indicate metabolic issues or malignancies.
4. Breathing Difficulties: Shortness of breath, wheezing, or chronic cough can indicate respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
5. Severe Pain: Unexplained or intense pain, whether in the chest, abdomen, or elsewhere, should be evaluated to rule out serious ailments.
6. Digestive Issues: Persistent nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in bowel habits may indicate gastrointestinal disorders.
7. Skin Changes: Sudden skin changes, rashes, or unexplained bruising may suggest allergies or systemic diseases.
8. Neurological Symptoms: Symptoms like severe headaches, dizziness, numbness, or changes in vision require prompt evaluation.
9. Mood Changes: Severe depression, anxiety, or mood swings can indicate underlying mental health issues that need addressing.
10. Family History of Illness: If you have a family history of serious conditions, discussing symptoms early with a specialist can lead to preventative measures.