Chronic illness

What is chronic illness?

A chronic illness is a medical condition that lasts for a long period of time, typically at least six months or more. Unlike acute illnesses that resolve quickly, chronic conditions are ongoing and often incurable. Some examples of common chronic illnesses are diabetes, arthritis, hypertension, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Individuals with chronic illness face unique challenges in managing symptoms over time that can greatly impact daily life and functioning. Learning to adapt is an important part of coping. Finding the right treatment is also essential but can require a lot of trial and error working with medical providers.

Some key impacts of living with chronic illness include:

• Dealing with symptoms like pain, fatigue, reduced mobility, digestive issues etc. Sometimes symptoms flare up unexpectedly.


• Juggling medical appointments and treatments like medications, physical therapy, counseling etc. Treatments often need to be adjusted over time.


• Worrying about the future and uncertainty over one's health long-term


• Facing lifestyle limitations regarding work, social life, diet, exercise capabilities etc. Pacing oneself is crucial.


• Coping with psychological effects like depression, anxiety, isolation, low self-esteem


• Managing the financial aspects including insurance coverage, prescriptions, medical bills etc.

If you live with a chronic condition, remember that you are not alone! Reach out for social support and become your own best advocate in health care. Optimizing hormones can also help many chronic symptoms, so consider booking a hormone balance assessment at Harmony Hormone Clinic to see if we can help you feel better through integrated treatments. Our clinic specializes in chronic illnesses.

Some helpful strategies in coping with chronic illness include:

• Learning techniques to minimize your symptoms


• Finding peer support groups to reduce isolation


• Engaging in open dialog with your medical providers


• Focusing on aspects of health/life within your control


• Making time for self-care activities even on bad days


• Setting priorities and pacing activities to avoid crashes


• Seeking counseling for stress/emotional difficulties


• Embracing positivity and hope where possible

Learning to adapt and take things one day at a time makes a big difference. Be kind to yourself and know that there are options to help you manage your illness more smoothly. Reach out for support when you need it.