Chronic Illness Management
Dr. Kieran Whyte specialises in the management of many Chronic Diseases
Asthma
Asthma is a common lung condition that causes occasional breathing difficulties.
It affects people of all ages and often starts in childhood, although it can also develop for the first time in adults.
There is currently no cure, but there are simple treatments that can help keep the symptoms under control so it does not have a big impact on your life.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD is the name for a group of lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties. It includes:
- Emphysema – damage to the air sacs in the lungs
- Chronic bronchitis – long-term inflammation of the airways
COPD is a common condition that mainly affects middle-aged or older adults who smoke. Many people do not realise they have it.
The breathing problems tend to get gradually worse over time and can limit your normal activities, although treatment can help keep the condition under control.
Cardiovascular Disease
Approximately 10,000 people die each year from cardiovascular disease (CVD).
CVD can include Coronary Heart Disease (CHD), Stroke and other circulatory diseases.
CVD is the most common cause of death in Ireland, accounting for 36% of all deaths. The largest number of these deaths relate to CHD – mainly heart attack – at 5,000. 22% of premature deaths (under age 65) are from CVD.
Diabetes Type 2
Type 2 Diabetes is a common condition that causes the level of sugar (glucose) in the blood to become too high.
It can cause symptoms like excessive thirst, needing to pee a lot, and tiredness. It can increase your risk of getting serious problems with your eyes, heart and nerves.
It is a lifelong condition that can affect your everyday life. You may need to change your diet, take medicines and have regular check-ups.
It is caused by problems with a chemical in the body (hormone) called insulin. It is often linked to being overweight or inactive, or having a family history of type 2 diabetes.