Many people all over the world suffer from one or more chronic medical conditions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 6 in 10 adults in the United States have a chronic disease. A chronic medical condition is not the same thing as a person getting the flu every year or frequently getting the common cold. It is a long-term illness that requires ongoing treatment and care.chronic medical condition

We explain what a chronic medical condition is, how it affects patients and their families and, thankfully, how it can be managed.

What is a Chronic Medical Condition?

Chronic medical conditions are illnesses that require ongoing treatment and care. According to the CDC, a chronic medical condition lasts one year or more and usually impacts a person’s daily lifestyle to some degree. Some common conditions include:

  • Heart disease
  • Cancer
  • Diabetes
  • Migraines
  • Asthma
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Lung disease
  • Kidney disease

What Causes a Chronic Medical Condition?

A chronic medical condition is caused by a combination of genetics, lifestyle and environment. Sometimes there is no clear reason why someone develops a chronic medical condition, but often there are risk factors that can increase the chance of developing one. Some common risk factors include:

  • Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Poor diet
  • Inactivity

Management

Chronic medical conditions can be very challenging to manage, both for the person who has the condition and their loved ones. But with proper treatment and care, many people are able to live full, healthy lives.

There are many things that can help manage a chronic medical condition, including:

  • Regular doctor visits
  • A healthy diet
  • Exercise
  • Prescribed medication

Living with a chronic medical condition can be difficult, but there are many resources and support groups available to help.

How Can We Help?

If you have a chronic medical condition, it is important to seek treatment and care from a qualified healthcare professional. Our experienced and professional medical team at Hibiscus Medical are trained to care for a variety of chronic medical conditions. Schedule an appointment online or call 202-350-1546.