What makes a condition complex?
A condition is complex if it:
- Can be life-threatening
- Affects several organs of the body
- Limits daily activities and reduces quality of life
- Needs treatment that carries risk
- Needs body measurements kept within a narrow, safe range
- Needs frequent checks of body functions, and of medicine doses and side effects
Examples
- Diabetes
- Congestive heart failure
- High blood pressure
- Peripheral vascular disease
- Chronic kidney disease
- Thyroid disorders
- Arthritis
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Migraine
- Chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD)
- Interstitial lung disease
- Psoriasis and eczema
- Skin fungal infection
- Dementia
- Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease
- Liver disease
- Nerve disorders
- Depression
- Vertigo
- Long-lasting infections
How is this different from a simple illness?
A simple illness can usually be treated in a few days without extra tests. A complex condition needs more:
- A careful search for the exact cause or causes, using examination and blood or imaging tests
- A plan that weighs the risk of the disease against the risk of its treatment
- An estimate of how you are likely to respond to treatment
- Regular tests and follow-ups, to prevent future complications and side effects
- Time and effort from both doctor and patient, over a long period
Regular follow-up is the most important part of care for long-term conditions. Call or WhatsApp us to plan yours.