Chronic illness is a term used to describe long-term or lifelong conditions that typically cannot be cured, but instead must be managed on an ongoing basis. Some examples of common chronic illnesses include diabetes, asthma, heart disease, arthritis, and depression.
According to the CDC, 6 in 10 adults in the U.S. have a chronic disease, and 4 in 10 adults have two or more chronic diseases. So chronic conditions are extremely prevalent.
For a condition to be considered chronic, it must meet these criteria:
| Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | Lasts 1 year or more |
| Medical Care | Requires ongoing medical care |
| Limitations | Limits daily activities and quality of life |
In other words, chronic conditions are not temporary infections that go away after taking some antibiotics. They are persistent health problems that people live with day after day, year after year.
Living with a chronic disease can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Effects may include:
| Impact | Description |
|---|---|
| Symptoms | Ongoing symptoms like pain, fatigue, breathing issues |
| Limitations | Activity limitations |
| Sleep | Disrupted sleep |
| Diet | Dietary restrictions |
| Medical Care | Regular doctor visits and medical treatment |
| Emotional | Emotional struggles like stress, anxiety, depression |
| Financial | Financial strain due to medical costs |
Chronic illness requires adaptation and lifestyle adjustments. Patients must monitor their health, take medications, attend appointments, and learn to pace themselves. It can be exhausting both physically and emotionally. Support from loved ones is critical.
Proper self-care can help people with chronic illness optimize their health despite ongoing limitations.
Chronic illnesses are long-term health conditions that require ongoing management and can significantly impact a person's quality of life. However, with proper self-care, support from loved ones, and medical guidance, people with chronic illnesses can optimize their health and well-being.
At Renew Hormones, we help patients with chronic fatigue and hormone imbalance improve their energy, mood, and overall well-being through individualized hormone therapy plans. Our compassionate providers partner with patients to help them reclaim their vitality.