Chronic illness broadly refers to conditions that last 1 year or more and require ongoing medical care. These ongoing health issues can range greatly in severity. 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 of common chronic illnesses include:
Living with chronic illness often means learning to adapt and cope with health challenges that persist over long periods of time. This can deeply impact one's quality of life. Key impacts include:
Successfully navigating life with chronic illness involves working closely with your healthcare providers to manage treatments, symptoms, and lifestyle changes. Having the right support systems in place also makes a major difference.
If living with chronic illness feels overwhelming, consider connecting with a health coach or chronic disease specialist. They can help you:
Managing a chronic medical issue over the long-run can feel daunting. But with the right treatment plan and support network, many people find ways to thrive in their lives while coping with their symptoms. Don't hesitate to reach out for guidance. Small adjustments to your care can make a major difference.