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What Is Chronic Illness?

A Definition and Explanation of Chronic Disease

Jan 28, 2009 Carly Finseth

One in two Americans currently suffer from a form of chronic disease. Learn what it is, and what you can do if you or a loved one is suffering from a chronic illness.

The word "chronic" is typically used for conditions, illnesses, and diseases lasting three months or more. Often, chronic conditions are characterized by lasting symptoms and/or pain that persists, sometimes even despite treatment.

Chronic illnesses are the opposite of acute illnesses; acute conditions come on fast and usually don't last a long time. This isn't to say that people with chronic conditions are continually suffering; rather, a chronic condition is one that is expected to last a long time. Many patients, in fact, are able to manage their disease to live relatively healthy and normal lives. Others often have conditions that go into remission - that is, the symptoms disappear for a time.

It's Likely That You or Someone You Know Has a Chronic Illness

According to the PBS series Who Cares: Chronic Illness In America, "125 million Americans currently suffer with a chronic illness" - and by the year 2020, that number is expected to rise to 157 million. To illustrate just how staggering that is, the numbers equal nearly one in two Americans who suffer from a chronic condition.

These numbers mean that it's likely that you - or someone close to you - has a chronic illness, whether you're aware of it or not. To make sure that you aren't suffering from an undiagnosed condition, it's important that you get regular check-ups with your doctor. It's also a good idea to become informed about the various forms of chronic disease - as well as what you can do to help friends and loved ones with chronic disease - so that you can be helpful and supportive when necessary.

Common Forms of Chronic Disease

Fibromyalgia, migraines, diabetes, and asthma are some of the more common chronic illnesses; diseases such as lupus, heart disease, and cancer, are also just a few additional conditions that can make life seem like a continual challenge.

In addition to the above, other common types of chronic disease include: chronic fatigue syndrome, cancer, hepatitis, auto-immune disorders, psoriasis, and cardiovascular disease. Other conditions, which occur most commonly in older individuals, are: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and rheumatoid arthritis. There are also countless other diseases and conditions that aren't nearly as common.

What to Do If You or a Loved One Has Been Diagnosed with a Chronic Illness

The first step when learning of a chronic illness diagnosis is to find out what you can do to manage it. Diabetes and asthma are two examples wherein most sufferers use medication, homeopathy, diet, and/or exercise to manage symptoms. Your doctor should be able to advise you on what steps you can take to manage or treat your condition.

Next, it helps to become informed. You may want to do some independent online research or join a support group - for patients or for caregivers. Also, if you need help or if you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask. Your medical doctor can help with most questions or concerns - or can refer you to someone else who can.

Most importantly, don't lose hope. A positive attitude and a solid support base of friends, family, counselors, and medical professionals can help you best manage the chronic illness in your life, as well as help you face the challenges ahead.

The copyright of the article What Is Chronic Illness? in General Medicine is owned by Carly Finseth. Permission to republish What Is Chronic Illness? in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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