Chronic illness broadly refers to long-lasting or recurrent conditions that can cause day-to-day impacts, limitations, or pain for those affected. Some examples include:
- Arthritis - This causes inflammation and stiffness in the body's joints, often getting worse with time and age. Symptoms typically include chronic joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
- Asthma - A chronic inflammation of the lung's airways that makes breathing difficult. Symptoms include coughing, tightness in the chest, shortness of breath, and wheezing.
- Chronic pain - Pain that persists for over 3-6 months, potentially caused by an underlying condition or injury. It may come and go or be constant, interfering with daily life.
- Diabetes - A metabolic disease where the body cannot produce or properly absorb insulin. This leads to high blood sugar levels that can damage organs over time. Symptoms include increased thirst/urination, hunger, fatigue and blurred vision.
- Heart disease - Encompasses conditions affecting the structure or function of the heart, which can often be lifelong. This includes things like coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, or heart failure. Chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations and edema are common symptoms.
- Many autoimmune disorders also fall into the category of chronic illnesses, like lupus, multiple sclerosis (MS), and inflammatory bowel disease. These involve the body's immune system chronically attacking its own healthy cells and tissues over time, causing widespread inflammation that leads to organ and tissue damage.
- Dealing with ongoing medical appointments, tests, treatments or medications
- Fatigue, low energy levels, weakness or mobility issues interfering with daily activities or independence
- Pain, discomfort or other persistent symptoms that compromise quality of life
- Emotional difficulties like depression or anxiety due to lifestyle impacts or uncertainty
- Higher medical costs associated with lifelong healthcare needs
- Feeling socially isolated or unsupported