Internal medicine is a specialty in health care that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions that affect adults. The term originated in Germany where doctors united laboratory science with patient care. Arkansas physicians who specialize in adult diseases are called internists. Nearly half of their medical education centers on adult patients. They are highly experienced in managing patients with a severe chronic illness or several illnesses at the same time. Internists assist other doctors establish a diagnosis in cases with rare and baffling symptoms.
Internal medicine doctors understand how to prevent disease and promote health. They treat diseases that affect the skin, ears, eyes, reproductive system and nervous system. People can also consult with Arkansas physicians on women's health, mental health and substance abuse issues. Internists administer patient care in their office, a clinic, the hospital or in a nursing home. Most of their consultations occur in hospitals because many of their patients are very ill or need extensive testing. They work with other specialists to coordinate and manage patient care in complex medical situations.
Internists can receive additional postgraduate training and specialize in cardiology, rheumatology and other subspecialties. This specialized training is called a fellowship. It can take up to three years beyond the three years required to complete the residency training for general internal medicine.
Arkansas physicians help patients manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), depression, diabetes and other diseases and conditions. COPD impairs the ability of the breathing tubes and lungs to provide sufficient air for the body. It frequently occurs in cigarette smokers and is treated with oxygen therapy, exercise, medication and education.
Depression is a condition that affects approximately 20 million Americans. Medication, hormonal changes, life events or chemical imbalances in the brain can cause symptoms of depression. It evokes feelings of guilt, exhaustion and irrelevance. This disorder can disrupt sleep, appetite and make it difficult to think or make decisions. This is a treatable illness that is addressed with antidepressants. The physician works with the patient to select the treatment regimen.
Diabetes impairs the body's ability to convert food into energy. The body changes carbohydrates into glucose and transports it inside cells using a substance called insulin. Those who have diabetes don't make enough insulin or their cells can't use the insulin to change the glucose into fuel for the body. Internists help people manage their diabetes with diet, exercise and medication.
Arkansas physicians have broad and in-depth training that enables them to use their understanding of disease processes to help restore health and wellness.
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