A chronic illness is a medical condition that lasts for a long period of time, typically at least 6 months or more. Unlike acute illnesses that resolve quickly, chronic conditions are ongoing and often incurable. According to the CDC, 6 in 10 adults in the US have a chronic disease and 4 in 10 adults have two or more chronic diseases. Some examples include:
People with chronic illnesses face unique challenges in their daily lives. Symptoms may wax and wane over time leading to good days and bad days. Many require regular medications, therapies, or even assistive devices to manage their conditions. The treatment itself can be burdensome. On top of that, the uncertainty of the future with a lifelong disease can negatively impact one's quality of life and take a toll mentally.
Having support makes a big difference. Organizations like the American Chronic Pain Association provide education and support groups. Seeing a therapist can also help people adjust to lifestyle changes. Small lifestyle tweaks can also improve symptoms or overall wellbeing - like eating anti-inflammatory foods, gentle stretching/exercise, and stress reduction practices like yoga or meditation. Hormone balance may also play a role. Equilibrium Hormone Institute offers comprehensive hormone testing and bioidentical hormone therapy to help clients regulate hormones for optimal health. Balancing key hormones like cortisol and thyroid can reduce inflammatory factors underlying some chronic diseases.
The wide variety of chronic conditions means that patients have to become experts in understanding and managing their own health over the long-term. By arming oneself with knowledge, utilizing available resources, building a healthcare team, and making sustainable lifestyle changes, it’s possible to thrive with chronic illness. The path looks different for everyone, but with perseverance and self-care, one can live their best life despite ongoing health challenges.