Quick Answers
What's the difference between a chronic illness and an acute illness?
A chronic illness is defined as any disease that
develops slowly and lasts a long time. Examples of
common chronic illnesses are diabetes, arthritis,
congestive heart failure, Alzheimer's disease,
Parkinson's disease, and stroke. Chronic conditions are
typically caused by multiple factors. Your family
history may put you at greater risk. Your behavior and
environment may increase your chances of developing a
chronic condition. Some chronic diseases will never go
away. However, you can live almost symptom free and have
a good quality of life by making behavior changes and
using the health care system wisely.
An acute illness, on the other hand, typically
starts suddenly and is short lived. Two common examples
are colds and the flu. Some acute illnesses, those
caused by viruses, will go away by themselves or with
good home care; while others can be cured by antibiotics
or other medical treatment.
Gail Carlson, MPH Ph.D., Continuing Medical Education, School of Medicine, University of Missouri-Columbia
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Last update: Tuesday, November 25, 2008
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