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Chronic illness affects approximately 133 million Americans right now - yet so many people don’t even talk about it. A chronic illness is defined as an illness which is ongoing and might be manageable, but is not curable. Well known chronic illnesses include arthritis, asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis and Crohn disease. Chronic stress is also an increasingly worrying illness which is affecting more and more people per year. But how do you know if your illness is chronic?

Defining Chronic Illness

Unlike illnesses that come and go, such as colds, flu, or even the novel coronavirus, chronic illnesses stick around. Your body will undergo immense stress, so it is important you seek help right away. If you feel ongoing symptoms which are either acute or general, you could be experiencing chronic illness. To discuss this with a professional, always visit your doctor if you are experiencing this.

Here are some common symptoms of chronic illness.

1. Constant fatigue.

Tiredness is just a part of adult life, right? We all feel tired most days, trying to juggle our lives, build a future and spend time with our loved ones. But if you experience constant fatigue that is making you incapable of completing day to day tasks, you could be showing symptoms of a chronic illness. Chronic fatigue is, in itself, an illness which affects thousands each year.

So how do you define constant fatigue? Is it yawning at your desk, or feeling totally wiped by 5pm each day? Well, it all depends on your regular energy levels. If you are finding it impossible to go to work, for example, or to complete basic tasks like showering, cooking meals or cleaning the house, then you should see a doctor about your tiredness levels.

2. Repetitive Symptoms.

If you are ill, you will experience symptoms - this is normal. However, if you continue to experience these symptoms on a repeated cycle, such as regular headaches, constantly blocked up airways or continuing stomach pain, your illness could be chronic.

Being Diagnosed

Medicine is more advanced now than ever before in human history, and now you can get relief for chronic conditions. But before relief, comes a diagnosis. Your doctor may send you to a specialist to have extensive tests, scans and checkups, depending on the nature of your symptoms. Eventually, you may get a diagnosis for a chronic illness. This can be upsetting, but with the right care, many people with chronic illnesses live full, active, happy lives.

Chronic illnesses do not really go away - or not usually, anyway. This means that living with your illness is a requirement. Medications have been developed which can be taken for life, meaning you can manage your symptoms and hopefully achieve a normal energy and functionality level!

Conclusion

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, see your doctor to learn more about how chronic illness works. Ensure you optimise your health with supplements, a healthy diet, and as much exercise as you can get.