Overview of Internal Medicine Specialists

Most people value their health above all else (especially if you’ve ever been sick before) which is why internal medicine is an important medical field that can help you prevent developing diseases or diagnose an existing condition. Seeking treatment early and going for regular checkups is important to your overall health and physical condition.


There are several different branches of internal medicine that deal with a variety of issues. Doctors must undergo many years (sometimes more than a decade) of specialized training in order to become experts in a narrowly focused subject. Many internal medicine doctors are also capable and do actively practice general care as well, but some have become so expert and valuable in their chosen specialty that they fly around the world to treat patients. Here are some of the subspecialties and when you should consider visiting an internal medicine specialist.


Cardiologist
You shouldn’t wait for a heart attack to visit a specialist. If you are feeling chest pains, shortness of breath, or an unusual heartbeat, it is best to see a cardiologist. They can help find ways to prevent and fight heart disease (which is the number one killer in the USA). Another good reason to visit this internal medicine specialist is if your family has a history of heart disease or similar problems. The sooner you identify a potential issue and begin treatment, the greater your chances of beating the odds.

Sleep Medicine
A fairly recent internal medicine branch, sleep medicine aims to help people get better rest and address disorders such as insomnia, apnea, and narcolepsy. If your sleeping habits have been erratic recently (or maybe you’ve struggled your entire life) or something very unusual is happening such as sudden sleepwalking spells, you should visit a specialist. Many people attempt to self-medicate through drugs, both legal and illegal, which can create addiction and many other problems. It is best to visit a professional to help you find a more permanent and safe solution.


Gastroenterology
Many of us have experienced problems with our stomach or intestines before, which can be normal and pass on its own after a few days or adjusting a poor diet. Chronic problems, such as regular heartburn, nausea, or problems passing food will require the intervention of a specialist. A doctor can help prescribe medicines to reduce or completely eliminate uncomfortable symptoms of diseases or other health issues to help you live more normally and with higher satisfaction.

There are many other types of internal medicine specialists. Your general practitioner can give you referrals if you think you have a specific problem that can only be addressed by an expert. It is important to visit a professional if you are experiencing chronic or sudden, alarming medical issues.