Chronic Disease and Your Health:
Information for Patients
Chronic versus Acute Illness
Health concerns are usually classified as either acute or chronic. Acute illnesses usually begin abruptly and last only a short time. Most people with an acute illness can expect to return to normal health. A strep throat is an example of an acute illness: it is easy to diagnose with a lab test and is cured with antibiotics.
Chronic diseases are different. They usually develop slowly, last long periods of time, and often are never cured. In most cases, there is no cure. The long-term effects may be difficult to predict. Some conditions cause few problems. Others cause only episodic problems or symptoms that can be controlled with medication.
However, in some cases, a chronic disease may severely limit a person's ability to work, go to school or take care of routine needs. You and your doctor can work together to develop a treatment plan to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Examples of chronic diseases include diabetes, congestive heart failure, asthma, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, depression, irritable bowel syndrome, arthritis, emphysema, and multiple sclerosis. Despite the wide variety of chronic diseases, there are many similar concerns for those who live with them.
Common concerns may include:
- knowing how to recognize and respond to changes in a chronic disease
- dealing with problems and emergencies
- using medicines and treatments effectively
- finding and using community resources
- getting enough exercise
- coping with fatigue, pain and sleep problems
- maintaining good nutrition
- making decisions about when to seek medical help
- working with your doctor(s) and other care providers
- talking about your illness with family and friends
- managing work, family and social activities
See Managing Your Chronic Illness.
Last Revised: December 17, 2007
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