Internal Medicine (General Medicine)
With advancements in science and technology, modern medical practice enables early diagnosis and accurate treatment through the use of laboratory tests (blood, urine, stool), radiological examinations (X-ray, MRI, CT scan, ultrasound), endoscopic procedures (colonoscopy, cystoscopy, gastroscopy), bone density measurement, ECG, and echocardiography.
The Internal Medicine (General Medicine) department provides comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services for adult patients aged 15 and over, operating 24/7 in hospitals. Internal medicine specialists carefully and meticulously manage the follow-up and treatment of patients with chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and kidney failure. In addition, individuals who do not have symptoms but carry certain disease risk factors are also evaluated and monitored in this department.
Diseases Diagnosed and Treated in the Internal Medicine Department
Upper and Lower Respiratory Tract Diseases
Respiratory tract infections are common contagious diseases, especially during the winter months, and are classified as upper and lower respiratory tract infections. Upper respiratory tract infections are generally referred to as the common cold and affect the nose and throat. Seasonal influenza outbreaks accompanied by high fever are frequently diagnosed by internal medicine specialists.
Lower respiratory tract infections are more serious conditions affecting the bronchi, bronchioles, and lungs.
Infectious Diseases
In addition to upper respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis, pharyngitis, and sinusitis, the internal medicine department also manages:
Internal medicine physicians are trained and experienced in diagnosing these conditions and planning appropriate treatments.
Hypertension
Hypertension is defined as a condition in which blood pressure within the arteries is higher than normal. Elevated blood pressure can cause damage to vital organs such as the heart, brain, kidneys, and eyes.
In adults, normal blood pressure values should be below 120 mmHg systolic and 80 mmHg diastolic. The Internal Medicine department provides diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of hypertension to prevent damage to vital organs.
Diabetes Mellitus
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form seen in adults, while Type 1 diabetes is more frequently observed in children and young individuals.
The Internal Medicine department organizes the treatment and follow-up plans for all patients with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Measures are taken to prevent organ damage, nutritional plans are arranged, and all medications used in diabetes treatment are prescribed and reported by internal medicine specialists.
Thyroid Diseases
The thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) secreted by the brain stimulates the thyroid gland, which in turn produces the vital hormones T3 and T4.
Thyroid hormones, secreted by the thyroid gland located in the neck, play a crucial role in regulating metabolic rate and many other bodily functions. Both underactive and overactive thyroid function can lead to significant metabolic disturbances.
All thyroid diseases are accurately diagnosed and treated in the Internal Medicine department.
Elevated Blood Lipids (Cholesterol and Triglycerides)
Unhealthy and irregular nutrition contributes to weight gain, and when combined with genetic predisposition, leads to elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
The Internal Medicine department evaluates blood test results, organizes treatment plans, and provides dietary recommendations for these patients.
Digestive System Diseases (Liver, Stomach, and Gallbladder)
Common digestive system diseases managed by internal medicine clinics include:
Treatment plans including medication, dietary changes, and lifestyle modifications are arranged by internal medicine specialists.
Lung Diseases
Respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, and COPD, which significantly affect patients’ quality of life due to shortness of breath, are diagnosed and treated within the Internal Medicine department.
Kidney Diseases
Harmful metabolic waste products formed in the body are eliminated by the kidneys. Kidney infections, stone formation, cysts, and acute or chronic kidney failure are serious health problems that require early treatment and may lead to permanent organ damage if left untreated.
Patients presenting with kidney-related complaints are evaluated and followed up in internal medicine clinics.
Anemia and Other Blood Disorders
Anemia is commonly detected in complete blood count tests and is most frequently caused by deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, and folic acid due to inadequate or unbalanced nutrition.
In addition, conditions such as thalassemia (Mediterranean anemia), clotting disorders, bleeding disorders, and bone marrow diseases fall within the expertise of the Internal Medicine department and are treated accordingly.
Rheumatic Diseases
Rheumatic diseases that should be evaluated and treated in internal medicine clinics include:
Routine follow-ups and basic treatments are conducted in internal medicine clinics, while patients are referred to rheumatology clinics when necessary.
Musculoskeletal System Diseases
Muscle and joint pain affects a large portion of the population. Diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of musculoskeletal pain affecting different parts of the body are managed by internal medicine departments.
Additionally, patients—especially elderly individuals—should consult internal medicine clinics for the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis. When required, patients are referred to physical therapy or orthopedics specialists.