Chronic health conditions

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how the body regulates blood sugar (glucose) levels.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, while

Type 2 diabetes develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough insulin to manage blood sugar effectively.

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a chronic health condition where the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is consistently elevated. It can strain the cardiovascular system and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health complications if left untreated.

Cardiovascular disease is a group of chronic health conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, including conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. These conditions can impede the proper functioning of the heart and circulation, leading to various health risks if not managed effectively.

Chronic respiratory conditions encompass a range of long-term health conditions affecting the lungs and airways, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These conditions can lead to persistent breathing difficulties, reduced lung function, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Arthritis is a chronic health condition that involves inflammation and damage to the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. There are different types of arthritis, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common, impacting people's quality of life and ability to carry out daily activities.

Chronic kidney disease is a long-term condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood, leading to a buildup of toxins in the body. As the disease progresses, it can result in complications such as high blood pressure, anemia, and bone disorders.

Chronic liver disease is a persistent condition that involves ongoing damage to the liver over time, affecting its ability to function properly. It can lead to complications like cirrhosis, liver failure, and an increased risk of liver cancer.

Neurological disorders encompass a group of chronic health conditions that affect the nervous system, resulting in disruptions to normal brain function and nerve communication. Examples include epilepsy, which causes recurrent seizures, and multiple sclerosis, which involves damage to the protective covering of nerve fibers, leading to a range of neurological symptoms.

Autoimmune diseases are chronic health conditions in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues, leading to inflammation and damage. Examples include lupus, which can affect various organs and systems, and Crohn's disease, which causes inflammation in the digestive tract, resulting in abdominal pain and other gastrointestinal symptoms.

Chronic pain conditions encompass long-lasting health conditions characterised by persistent pain that can affect different parts of the body. Fibromyalgia is an example of a chronic pain condition that involves widespread pain, fatigue, and tenderness in muscles and soft tissues, impacting daily functioning and overall well-being.

Chronic cancer refers to certain types of cancer that may persist for an extended period or recur over time, requiring ongoing management and treatment. Unlike some acute forms of cancer, chronic cancer may involve continuous monitoring, medical interventions, and adjustments to treatment plans to control the disease and maintain the best possible quality of life for the individual.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a chronic viral infection that attacks the immune system, gradually weakening the body's ability to fight infections and diseases. If left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a more advanced stage of the infection where the immune system becomes severely compromised, making the individual susceptible to life-threatening illnesses.

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME) is a complex and debilitating chronic health condition characterised by severe fatigue that is not relieved by rest and can worsen with physical or mental activity. It can significantly impact a person's daily life, causing a range of symptoms such as muscle pain, impaired cognitive function, and sleep disturbances.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a chronic health condition characterised by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, which includes conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. It leads to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue, and can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life and overall health.

Chronic migraines or headaches are long-term health conditions characterised by recurring and persistent episodes of intense head pain. These conditions can cause significant discomfort, sensitivity to light and sound, and may be accompanied by other symptoms like nausea and difficulty concentrating.

Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, are chronic health conditions that affect the thyroid gland's hormone production. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces insufficient hormones, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance, while hyperthyroidism results from excessive hormone production, causing symptoms such as weight loss, anxiety, and heat intolerance.