In lactic acidosis, the blood becomes acidic when it becomes too high in lactic acid. The liver and kidneys normally clear lactic acid as a byproduct of glucose metabolism, but if lactic acid is produced too much or cannot be cleared fast enough, it can accumulate in the blood and lower the pH. Aside from nausea, vomiting, weakness, rapid breathing, and confusion, this can cause various symptoms. Without prompt treatment, lactic acidosis can be fatal.
With direct primary care (DPC), patients have direct access to their primary care physician without having to deal with insurance companies or other third parties. In a DPC, patients pay a monthly or annual fee that covers all or most primary care services, including consultations, exams, lab tests, prescriptions, and referrals. Primary care providers who specialize in DPC typically have fewer patients, which allows them to spend more time with each patient and provide more personalized care.
Lactic acidosis patients may benefit from choosing a DPC provider for their primary care needs. Here are some of the advantages:
Any questions or concerns you may have about your condition can be addressed by your DPC provider via phone, email, or video chat.
DPC providers can help you diagnose the cause of your lactic acidosis, monitor your blood lactate levels, adjust your treatment plan, and prevent complications.
Saving money and reducing financial stress can be achieved by having lower or no out-of-pocket costs for your primary care services.
Scheduling your appointments more conveniently can help you fit your health care into your busy schedule.
Having a continuity and trusting relationship with your DPC provider can make you feel more comfortable and supported in managing your condition.
Your health and well-being can be improved by choosing a DPC provider for your primary care needs:
Enhanced physical health: Your DPC provider can help you treat the underlying cause of your lactic acidosis, whether it is an infection, a medication side effect, a metabolic disorder, or another condition. Additionally, your DPC provider can prescribe medications, fluids, oxygen therapy, or dialysis if necessary to manage the symptoms of lactic acidosis. If needed, they can also refer you to specialists or hospitals.
Improved mental health: Your DPC provider can help you cope with any emotional or psychological challenges that may result from your lactic acidosis, such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and social isolation. In addition, if necessary, your DPC provider can refer you to a therapist or counselor.
With guidance, education, resources, and support, your DPC provider can help you achieve your professional and personal goals. You can also improve your lifestyle habits by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and managing stress with the help of your DPC provider.
Those with lactic acidosis have different needs and preferences, which is why DPC providers offer a variety of services and options tailored to suit the specific needs of each patient. Patients with lactic acidosis may benefit from the following personalized services provided by DPC providers:
Testing: Your DPC provider can perform this test at their office or send you home with a portable device that you can use to check your blood lactate levels at home to monitor your condition and response to treatment.
As part of medication management, you'll be prescribed and adjusted medications to lower your blood lactate levels or treat the underlying causes of your lactic acidosis. As well as monitoring your medication adherence and side effects, your DPC provider can provide refills as needed.
Your DPC provider can administer intravenous fluids to correct dehydration or electrolyte imbalances that may contribute to lactic acidosis, or arrange for home infusion services.
A DPC provider can prescribe oxygen therapy and provide you with an oxygen concentrator or tank so that you can use it at home or on the go.
A dialysis machine filters your blood and removes excess lactic acid and other waste products. If needed, your DPC provider can refer you to a dialysis center or arrange for home dialysis.
If you choose a DPC provider for your primary care needs, you can have a trusted partner who can help you improve your health, well-being, and quality of life.
The famous physician William Osler once said, “The good doctor treats the disease; the great doctor treats the patient who has the disease.” If you suffer from lactic acidosis, you deserve a physician who can treat you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. That's what DPC can provide.
Previous Post
