37: How to take care of patients with chronic diseases

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Q: How to take care of patients with chronic diseases?

 💁Tracy: Patients with chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, chronic kidney diseases, cancers, and diabetes, etc, are at a higher risk of infection or develop severe symptoms. They should take extra precautions and minimize possible exposure to the virus as much as possible.

In addition, they need to regularly monitor their blood pressure, blood sugar, heart rate, blood oxygenation level and other important indicators during their stay at home to observe changes in their health. Consult" What should I do if I am at greater risk for infection or if members of my household have this risk?" to learn about symptoms of COVID-19.

In case of acute exacerbation of chronic illnesses or possible signs and symptoms of COVID-19, contact a doctor ASAP.
  • Patients with hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases without contraindications should continue to maintain self care, medications and appropriate forms of exercises. Do not change medications without discussing with your doctors.
  • Patients with end-stage chronic kidney disease must continue regular dialysis. 

Q: How should I take medicine medications at home?

 💁Tracy: 

  • Patients with chronic diseases should take medications at prescribed time with prescribed dose. Never change your medication regimen without consulting your doctor.
  • Consult with doctors and request medication refills online or over the phone.



  • Medical institutions promote long-term prescriptions for chronic diseases, which may be extended to 12 to 14 weeks if the patient's condition allows.



💁Tracy's Tips:

  • Follow the dietary recommendations of your doctor and nutritionist.



  • To exercise indoors, spend more time doing housework or use small fitness equipment such as dumbbells and an elastic belt.
  • Maintain a good state of mind，in order to avoid anxiety, insomnia, and even physical reactions such as palpitations. Refer to “What extra steps should I take if I live alone or I am struggling to cope with isolation?” for more information about how to relax.


Simple Facts about COVID-19：
Based on currently available information, people of all ages with underlying medical conditions may be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. These conditions include:

  • chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma,
  • cardiovascular conditions,
  • cancers,
  • compromised immune system or immune disorders,
  • severe obesity,
  • diabetes,
  • chronic kidney disease undergoing dialysis, and
  • liver disease.


References :


Writing: Xinkai Wang; Proofreading: Helen Shih, Shan Chen; Artwork: Astro
Disclaimer and Copyright © 2020 United Chinese Americans

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