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Dr. Ermias Tilahun, MD

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Specializes in: Internal Medicine (Adult Medicine)

Professional interests include: melanoma, wart removal, asthma, and more.

5015 N. Paulina Street Suite 101
Chicago, IL 60640

(773) 907-3550

Dr. Ermias Tilahun, MD is an internist in Chicago, IL specializing in internal medicine (adult medicine). Dr. Ermias Tilahun, MD is affiliated with Swedish Hospital and ERMIAS TILAHUN MD SC.

Office Locations

Address:

5015 N. Paulina Street Suite 101
Chicago, IL 60640

Some issues Dr. Ermias Tilahun, MD can help you with:

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic lung disease where the tissue and airways of the lungs become extremely sensitive to certain substances. When these substances are breathed in, the lungs become inflamed. The muscles around the airways tighten and squeeze the lungs, and passages within the lungs swell and tighten. The airways themselves produce mucus, which further clogs the tightened, swollen airways. A person having an asthma attack finds it very difficult to breathe, and a severe attack can even be fatal.

Asthma affects people of all ages, but people with asthma are most often diagnosed as children. Symptoms can include wheezing, a tight feeling in the chest, shortness of breath, and coughing. Some people have mild symptoms all the time, and some people have no symptoms at all, but everyone with asthma is susceptible to occasional severe attacks or flare-ups of symptoms when they are exposed to triggers. Triggers vary widely but can include:

Allergens (dust mites, pet fur, mold, pollen, grass)
Irritants (smoke, pollution, dust, chemicals)
Viral infections
Physical activity, especially outdoors
Certain medications or chemicals in foods (aspirin, sulfites)

Treatment for most asthma patients involves three steps. Patients learn what their asthma triggers are and avoid them. They take a daily control medication, usually an inhaled corticosteroid, to reduce inflammation in the lungs. Also, they have rescue medication with them at all times to take in case of a severe attack. These quick-acting inhaled medications relax the muscles around the airways and allow the lungs to open up for air.

There is no cure for asthma, but with treatment it should not interfere with daily life and activities.

Heart Problems

The heart is one of the most important organs in the body. This smooth muscle expands and contracts rhythmically an entire lifetime, pumping blood to the lungs and then to every other cell in the body. When heart problems occur, it becomes difficult for the body to get the nutrients and oxygen it needs via the blood. So while there are a variety of illnesses and disorders that affect the heart, most of them cause weakness, exhaustion and shortness of breath. The most common heart conditions include heart disease, angina, arrhythmia, and valve disorders.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States for both men and women. This includes coronary artery disease, heart attacks, congestive heart failure, and congenital heart disease. Some conditions, such as genetics, cannot be controlled. But there are many other things one can do to lower their risk for heart disease. Controlling high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing or stopping smoking, exercising more and losing weight if needed, and eating a diet low in sodium can all protect the heart.

Angina is a squeezing type of chest pain that happens when the muscles around the heart don't get enough oxygen. It can be regular or infrequent. Usually, angina is caused by coronary heart disease. However, not all chest pain is angina. Chest pain can also be caused by a lung infection or panic attack, for example, so it is important to have any sudden pain checked.

Arrhythmia is the word for when the heart beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly with skipped beats. It can feel frightening, and depending on the type it can be dangerous, but in most cases arrhythmia is not serious and can be treated. It is very common, especially in older adults.

Heart valve problems can happen in any one of the the heart's four valves that keep blood flowing where it needs to go. Babies can be born with problems in their heart valves, or valves can be damaged by infections. The valves can stiffen and become less mobile, or they can stop closing properly and 'leak' when the heart beats. Valve problems can usually be repaired surgically.

Thyroid Problems

Thyroid problems are a group of conditions that alter hormone regulation and metabolism. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower neck, just below the Adam's apple (laryngeal prominence) and larynx (voice box). Despite its small size, the thyroid has an outsized effect on the body by regulating hormones that control metabolism. Metabolism is the body's process of converting consumed food into fuel to power the entire body. Heart rate, weight, cholesterol, body temperature, and even physical growth and development are all affected by the metabolism.

When the thyroid malfunctions, the body is unable to properly process and allocate energy. Thyroid problems, such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), cause irregular metabolism. In some cases, the body produces antibodies that attack the thyroid cells for unknown reasons. The damaged thyroid responds by releasing either too little or too much T3 and T4 thyroid hormones. Thyroid malfunctions may also arise from genetic causes or iodine deficiency. Thyroid problems may include:

Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease that causes hypothyroidism
Graves' disease, an autoimmune disease that causes hyperthyroidism
Goiter
Thyroid nodule
Thyroid cancer

Hashimoto's is the leading cause of hypothyroidism, which is when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones to stimulate adequate metabolism. The condition is diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and detect Hashimoto's antibodies. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include sluggish metabolism, inflammation, fatigue, weight gain, brittle hair, dry skin, and sensitivity to cold. To supplement impaired thyroid function, patients with Hashimoto's are typically prescribed synthetic thyroid hormone pills. Such patients may need to consume synthetic thyroids for the rest of their lives. Other treatments may include dietary changes, such as the avoidance of certain foods and medication to reduce inflammation. Frequent blood tests can inform patients if their TSH levels are within a normal range.

Grave's disease is most frequently the cause of hyperthyroidism, which is when the thyroid produces too many hormones, overstimulating one's metabolism. The condition is also diagnosed by blood tests that measure TSH and detect Grave's antibodies. Elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, sweating, bulging eyes, and weight loss are common symptoms of hyperthyroidism. Treatments for hyperthyroidism include oral radioactive iodine, which slowly shrinks the thyroid, slowing the production of excess thyroid hormone. Other anti-thyroid medications such as methimazole (Tapazole) also reduce the production of thyroid hormones. Blood pressure medications known as beta blockers can ease the increased heart rate caused by hyperthyroidism. If treatments are unsuccessful, patients may be prescribed a thyroidectomy, or surgery to remove part or all of the thyroid. Some patients with hyperthyroidism may require ophthalmological (eye medicine) treatments such as eye drops, prednisone, and surgery to reduce eye swelling and bulging.

Untreated thyroid disorders frequently lead to goiters or thyroid nodules. A thyroid goiter is a large lump that can be felt near the base of the neck and is made of swollen thyroid tissue or nodules (excess cell growth). Nodules and goiters are diagnosed by CT scan or ultrasound. Obstructive goiters can cause pain, coughing, and abnormal breathing. The most common cause of goiters is hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). However, Hashimoto's is also known to cause goiters or nodules. Goiters develop from continued damage from antibodies to the thyroid over time. At times, a goiter can result from a cancerous thyroid tumor. Most goiters and nodules are themselves benign.

The exact causes of thyroid cancer are unknown. People who develop thyroid cancer may or may not have another thyroid problem such as Hashimoto's or Grave's disease. Symptoms of thyroid cancer include a nodule that can be felt on the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, swelling in the neck, and neck and throat pain. CT and MRI scans are used to diagnose thyroid cancer. There are four types of thyroid cancer which vary in intensity. Thyroidectomy (thyroid removal surgery) is usually prescribed to treat thyroid cancer.

Thyroid problems are often long-term conditions that require some form of treatment. With regular monitoring and medication, many people with thyroid problems are able to lead active and fulfilling lives.

doctor visit	1025
hospital care	1229
inpatient care	1201
lab tests	62
nursing home care	166
outpatient care	29
preventive care	61

**Gender**
Male	134
Female	163

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	137
Black	52
Hispanic	75
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	91
From 75 to 84	98
85 and over	62
Less than 65	46

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	66
Stroke	11
Ischemic Heart Disease	60
Depression	28
Chronic Kidney Disease	37
Asthma	8
Osteoperosis	9
Atrial Fibrilation	20
Heart Failure	45
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	33
Diabetes	52
Dementia	27
Cancer	10

doctor visit	971
hospital care	706
inpatient care	642
nursing home care	56
outpatient care	54

**Gender**
Male	107
Female	164

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	136
Black	50
Hispanic	58
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	95
From 75 to 84	91
85 and over	47
Less than 65	38

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	67
Stroke	13
Ischemic Heart Disease	53
Depression	28
Chronic Kidney Disease	33
Asthma	11
Osteoperosis	8
Atrial Fibrilation	18
Heart Failure	39
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	26
Diabetes	50
Dementia	25
Cancer	12

doctor visit	758
hospital care	844
inpatient care	780
nursing home care	88
outpatient care	65
preventive care	10
vaccines	11

**Gender**
Male	220
Female	284

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	260
Black	78
Hispanic	110
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	180
From 75 to 84	152
85 and over	94
Less than 65	78

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	65
Stroke	12
Ischemic Heart Disease	55
Depression	29
Chronic Kidney Disease	36
Asthma	17
Osteoperosis	11
Atrial Fibrilation	16
Heart Failure	36
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	27
Diabetes	48
Dementia	21
Cancer	12

doctor visit	827
hospital care	722
inpatient care	653
nursing home care	174
outpatient care	70

**Gender**
Male	119
Female	108

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	104
Black	45
Hispanic	49
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	82
From 75 to 84	68
85 and over	44
Less than 65	33

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	54
Stroke	9
Ischemic Heart Disease	52
Depression	22
Chronic Kidney Disease	38
Asthma	22
Osteoperosis	8
Atrial Fibrilation	14
Heart Failure	32
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	22
Diabetes	42
Dementia	21
Cancer	12

doctor visit	788
hospital care	844
inpatient care	792
nursing home care	202
outpatient care	53

**Gender**
Male	103
Female	119

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	112
Black	38
Hispanic	46
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	71
From 75 to 84	77
85 and over	45
Less than 65	29

Hypertension	75
High Cholesterol	56
Stroke	9
Ischemic Heart Disease	48
Depression	25
Chronic Kidney Disease	40
Asthma	0
Osteoperosis	12
Atrial Fibrilation	18
Heart Failure	33
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	25
Diabetes	44
Dementia	25
Cancer	13

doctor visit	705
hospital care	289
inpatient care	278
nursing home care	108
outpatient care	12

**Gender**
Male	73
Female	100

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	76
Black	40
Hispanic	36
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	55
From 75 to 84	56
85 and over	33
Less than 65	29

Hypertension	73
High Cholesterol	63
Stroke	8
Ischemic Heart Disease	45
Depression	24
Chronic Kidney Disease	38
Asthma	6
Osteoperosis	16
Atrial Fibrilation	14
Heart Failure	26
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	17
Diabetes	42
Dementia	20
Cancer	13

**Gender**
Male	71
Female	85

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	57
Black	41
Hispanic	36
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	54
From 75 to 84	50
85 and over	30
Less than 65	22

Hypertension	74
High Cholesterol	63
Stroke	8
Ischemic Heart Disease	43
Depression	15
Chronic Kidney Disease	40
Asthma	0
Osteoperosis	10
Atrial Fibrilation	17
Heart Failure	28
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	17
Diabetes	44
Dementia	24
Cancer	10

doctor visit	699
hospital care	79
inpatient care	81

**Gender**
Male	70
Female	76

**Ethnicity**
Non-Hispanic White	51
Black	38
Hispanic	36
Asian	0
Other	0
Native American	0

**Age**
From 65 to 74	50
From 75 to 84	51
85 and over	26
Less than 65	19

Hypertension	72
High Cholesterol	58
Stroke	0
Ischemic Heart Disease	39
Depression	16
Chronic Kidney Disease	42
Asthma	0
Osteoperosis	0
Atrial Fibrilation	14
Heart Failure	30
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	13
Diabetes	45
Dementia	23
Cancer	8

doctor visit	745
hospital care	298
inpatient care	300
nursing home care	101

Average Medicare Procedure Volume From 2013 - 2021

Volume of procedures performed by Dr. Ermias Tilahun, MD for Medicare patients.

The highest averages for the top procedures that Dr. Ermias Tilahun, MD treated as an internist in Chicago, IL were hospital care, inpatient care, nursing home care and lab tests.

doctor visit	815
hospital care	582
inpatient care	548
lab tests	62
nursing home care	124
outpatient care	42
preventive care	36
vaccines	11

Average Medicare Patient Data From 2013 - 2021

Information about Medicare patients treated by Dr. Ermias Tilahun, MD.

**Gender**
Female	109
Male	89

**Ethnicity**
Black / African American	38
Asian / Pacific Islander	0
Non-Hispanic White	93
Native American / Alaskan Native	0
Hispanic	44
Other	0

**Age**
85 and over	38
75 to 84	64
Less than 65	29
65 to 74	67

Average of Total of Conditions of Medicare patients treated by Dr. Ermias Tilahun, MD From 2013 - 2021

The highest averages of the most common conditions of Medicare patients that Dr. Ermias Tilahun, MD treated were hypertension, high cholesterol, ischemic heart disease and diabetes.

Hypertension	59
High Cholesterol	49
Stroke	7
Ischemic Heart Disease	39
Depression	18
Chronic Kidney Disease	30
Asthma	6
Osteoporosis	7
Heart Failure	26
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease	18
Diabetes	36
Atrial Fibrillation	13
Cancer	9
Dementia	18

Education & Training

He completed residency at John Stroger Hospital of Cook County. He is certified by the Board Certification: Internal Medicine and has a state license in Illinois.

Residency: John Stroger Hospital of Cook County

Board Certification: Board Certification: Internal Medicine

Licensed In: Illinois

Affiliations & Hospitals

Dr. Ermias Tilahun, MD is associated with these hospitals and organizations:

Swedish Hospital

ERMIAS TILAHUN MD SC

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General Payments

These charts describe general payments received by Dr. Ermias Tilahun, MD. Doctors may receive payments for a number of reasons, including meal compensation, travel compensation, and consulting.

**Payments by Company**
Novo Nordisk Inc	$117 Victoza $117
Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc	$103 INVOKANA $68	XARELTO $35
Pfizer Inc.	$93 ELIQUIS $74	Spiriva $20
Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.	$81 JARDIANCE $23	Spiriva $18	Pradaxa $14	$27
Gilead Sciences Inc	$67 Epclusa $67
Other	$170 Cresemba $32	ELIQUIS $27	JANUMET XR $27	Vesicare $19	Contrave $16	Other $49

**Types of Payments**
Food and Beverage	$631

Biography

Dr. Ermias Tilahun (or staff) speaks the following foreign languages: Amharic, Bosnian, and Ethiopian Semitic. These areas are among his clinical interests: thyroid problems, heart problems, and glomerulonephritis. Dr. Tilahun is professionally affiliated with Swedish Hospital. His training includes a residency program at John Stroger Hospital of Cook County. Dr. Tilahun welcomes new patients at his office inChicago, IL as reported by Swedish Hospital.