Here at Rios Healthcare Associates in Houston, TX, Drs. Tomas Rios and Nicolin Neal are able to expertly treat both acute and chronic diseases. Unsure of the difference between these two categories? Read on to learn more.

More about Illnesses

As people age, they become more susceptible to different health conditions, such as the flu, arthritis, and heart failure. This is because our bodies, organs, and immune systems become increasingly weaker over time, causing more frequent bouts of illness.

Conditions are categorized as chronic or acute—but what is the difference?

• Acute illnesses usually develop suddenly and don't last long, a few days or weeks.
• Chronic conditions develop over time and may worsen over time, which takes months to years.

What are the causes of each?

• Acute conditions are caused by a virus or infection, an injury resulting from some sort of accident, or the misuse of drugs/medications. These conditions are severe and sudden in onset, but don't last very long.
• Chronic conditions are a result of social, emotional, environmental, and genetic factors, as well as unhealthy behaviors like poor nutrition, inadequate physical activity, or smoking. As people age, they become more susceptible to chronic conditions.

What are the symptoms and treatment options?

• Acute diseases require urgent or short-term care and become better once treated. Some acute illness go away with time and people soon recover.
• Chronic conditions develop over time and cannot be cured, only controlled or managed. You can work with your Houston physicians to create a health care plan.

Examples of Acute and Chronic Conditions

Acute conditions

• Broken bones
• Bronchitis
• Burns
• Common cold and flu
• Heart attacks
• Respiratory infection

Chronic conditions

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Arthritis
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Depression
• Diabetes and heart disease
• Obesity
• High blood pressure and high cholesterol
• Stroke

Concerned? Give Us a Call

If you'd like to contact Drs. Tomas Rios or Nicolin Neal for a consultation, then don't hesitate to call Rios Healthcare Associates, PLLC today by dialing (832) 323-9230.

Have an acute disease? From the common cold and the flu to a sports injury and pneumonia, adults experience it all. Why? Because as we get older, our bodies go through changes, sometimes making us more susceptible to illness. Acute diseases develop suddenly and last a brief time. Led by Dr. Nicolin Neal and Dr. Tomas Rios, Rios Healthcare Associates (located in Houston, TX) provides a full range of internal medicine services to our patients.
 

About Acute Diseases

Acute conditions are severe and sudden in onset. They generally last a short time, often only a few days or weeks. This is different from chronic conditions, which develop gradually and remain for months. Examples of acute diseases include colds, the flu, strep throat, minor cuts, and respiratory infection.
 

When to See a Doctor

Many minor acute illnesses- such as the common cold or allergies- are manageable with OTC medications. Any disease, infection or sudden onset of serious symptoms warrant a visit to a physician. Even seemingly harmless symptoms should be evaluated if they worsen or persist.
 

What to Expect During the Visit

The primary goal of your healthcare provider's visit will be to diagnose your condition and initiate a plan for treatment. Most acute conditions respond well to therapies and treatments, but the extent of your treatment will depend on the severity of your condition. Your treatment plan could be as simple as prescribing medication antibiotics for strep throat.
 

What to Do After Your Visit

If you are sent home after your appointment, you may be instructed to drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. You may also need to follow specific directions for taking and storing medications or returning to work. The most important thing is to deal with your condition and get healthy again.

Take charge of your health. Call Rios Healthcare Associates at 832-323-9230 today to schedule an appointment in Houston, TX. From minor health problems such as indigestion and aches and pains, we can help you get back on your feet. Making a commitment to taking care of your body can have a far-reaching payoff.