Medical treatment is the use of drugs, devices, procedures and other methods that doctors and other health professionals apply to treat a disease or injury. This type of care usually takes place in physician offices, hospitals, clinics and other medical facilities. It may also happen at home, in schools and in the community. Medical treatments include diagnostic and therapeutic services, and they may include primary, secondary and tertiary care.
A physician may refer you to a specialist, or you may request one yourself. Your insurance plan may require a referral to see a specialist. You should always ask your doctor to explain any treatment that he or she gives you and why it is important for your health. If you don’t understand something, ask the doctor to explain it again or to provide you with written materials. If you have questions or concerns, call your doctor’s office to speak with a nurse or other member of the staff.
A medical diagnosis is a name for the specific illness you have. It tells what kind of illness you have and how serious it is. The diagnosis may be based on your symptoms and signs, a physical exam and laboratory tests, or other diagnostic tools.
The most common treatment for a condition is to take medicine. Medicines can control many diseases and prevent complications from happening. Before beginning any medicines, you should know the correct dosage and how to take them. You should also be aware of the side effects that you might experience from a certain medicine. If you experience any serious side effects, such as breathing difficulties or a severe rash, get emergency medical treatment immediately.
Another form of treatment is surgery. The type of surgery that you have will depend on the condition you have and its location in your body. A surgical procedure to remove tissue, such as a biopsy, can help make a diagnosis. A surgeon can perform a variety of surgical procedures, such as a laparotomy (abdominal surgery), colonoscopy or gastroscopy (intestines).
Nonsurgical therapy is the use of drugs, devices or other non-invasive methods to manage pain and discomfort. It can be used for many diseases and conditions, including back pain and arthritis. Non-invasive therapies can also be helpful in treating some cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
During a medical appointment, the doctor will ask you questions about your past health and your current health. You should share all of your symptoms, such as any pain or discomfort, with the doctor. The doctor will then give you a diagnosis and recommend a course of treatment.
Before making any decisions about your medical treatment, think about what is most important to you. For example, if you have high blood pressure, you may be willing to endure some side effects, such as dizziness or headaches, in order to lower your risk of heart attack and stroke. If your doctor suggests that you not be treated for a health condition, consider the impact of that decision on your work and family life.