Word parts
What it means
A broad term for any long-lasting health problem, including chronic diseaseKRON-ik dih-ZEEZA health condition that lasts a long time, usually a year or more, and is managed rather than cured.chron/o time-ic relating toFull entry s such as diabetes and heart failure, and also lasting conditions such as hearing loss, a spinal cord injury, chronic pain or a mental illness. Many adults have more than one. A chronic condition may be stable for long periods and then have flare-ups (exacerbationig-zas-er-BAY-shunA time when a long-term disease suddenly gets worse, or its symptoms flare up.Full entry s).
For the nurse
Focus on self-management, keeping function, preventing complications and quality of life. Ask what matters most to the client and what support they have at home.
At a glance
| Spanish | afección crónica |
|---|---|
| Also written | chronic conditions |
Related terms
exacerbation
A time when a long-term disease suddenly gets worse, or its symptoms flare up.
self-care
The things people do for themselves to look after their own health and daily needs.
chronic disease
A health condition that lasts a long time, usually a year or more, and is managed rather than cured.
recurrence
The return of a disease or symptom after a period when it had gone away.