An internist is a medical doctor who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult diseases. Unlike family practitioners who may treat patients from infancy through old age, internists dedicate their training exclusively to adult medicine. Their understanding of complex internal body systems allows them to manage difficult diagnostic problems and severe chronic illnesses. Here’s more information on internal medicine doctors and what they treat:
What Is Internal Medicine?
Internal medicine is a vast and intricate field focused on the internal organs and systems of the adult body. It encompasses a wide spectrum of care, ranging from routine general health maintenance to the management of complex, multi-system diseases. The discipline prioritizes a comprehensive approach to adult physiology, requiring physicians to have a detailed understanding of how different organ systems interact with one another. Internists rely primarily on medication, lifestyle modification, and non-invasive therapies to restore health.
What Does an Internist Treat?
Because internal medicine covers all internal organ systems, the scope of conditions an internist treats is exceptionally broad. They are equipped to manage common acute illnesses and long-term chronic conditions. Internists frequently manage chronic diseases that require ongoing monitoring and medication adjustment, including conditions like:
- Diabetes
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Heart Disease
- Asthma
They monitor blood glucose levels, adjust antihypertensive medications, and advise dietary changes to mitigate cardiovascular risks.
Beyond common ailments, internists treat disorders affecting specific organs like the kidneys, liver, and gastrointestinal tract. They diagnose and manage digestive disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and they also address endocrine issues like thyroid disorders and metabolic imbalances. When a patient presents with a condition that affects multiple organs simultaneously, the internist coordinates the overall care plan with other specialists. This communication helps treatments from negatively impact another.
Who Can an Internist Treat?
Internal medicine specialists see patients across the entire adult lifespan, from young adults transitioning out of pediatric care to elderly patients requiring geriatric management. For younger adults, the focus often lies on preventative care, screenings, and establishing healthy lifestyle baselines. As patients age, the internist’s role shifts toward disease management and preserving quality of life. They provide preventative services such as cancer screenings, cholesterol checks, and vaccinations, which are fundamental for maintaining health through the decades.
One of the defining strengths of an internist is the ability to care for patients with “comorbidities,” or multiple co-occurring chronic conditions. A patient might simultaneously struggle with diabetes, heart failure, and arthritis; managing this combination requires a nuanced understanding of how these diseases interact. The internist acts as the central point of contact for these individuals. They synthesize information from various sub-specialists, such as cardiologists or endocrinologists, to make sure the patient receives cohesive care.
Contact an Internal Medicine Specialist
Choosing an internist as your primary care provider helps you navigate your adult health with a professional. Whether you require a routine physical examination, management for a chronic condition, or a diagnosis for puzzling symptoms, an internal medicine specialist offers comprehensive care for your needs. If you are looking for a physician to oversee your medical care, contact an internist near you today.
