Chronic illness is a health condition that persists for a prolonged period and often requires ongoing management or care.
Chronic illnesses may develop gradually or persist after an initial illness or injury. Examples include diabetes, hypertension, asthma, chronic kidney disease, and many forms of cardiovascular disease.
Some chronic illnesses can be controlled effectively without being completely cured. Their effects can vary over time, with periods of stability, worsening, or improvement.
QUICK FACT
Chronic does not necessarily mean severe. A chronic condition can be mild, moderate, or severe.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
Acute illness — Acute conditions generally develop over a relatively short period, although an acute illness can sometimes occur in a person who also has a chronic condition.
SEE ALSO
- Chronic
- Noncommunicable disease
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Long-term condition
