When you have an acute illness such as bronchitis or flu, you know you’ll feel better and be back to normal within a short period of time. This isn’t true with a chronic illness #chronicillness . It may never go away and can disrupt your life in a number of ways.
Chronic illnesses have disease-specific symptoms, but may also bring invisible symptoms like pain, fatigue and mood disorders. It is better to consider them as #invisibledisabilities .
Chronic illness have a variety of effects on your life, physically and mentally
Physical changes from a disease may affect your appearance. These changes can turn a positive self-image into a poor one. When you don’t feel good about yourself, you may withdraw from friends and social activities leading to #socialisolation . Stress can build and can shape your feelings about life. Long periods of stress can lead to frustration, anger, hopelessness, and, at times, depression. Mood disorders such as #depression and #anxiety are common complaints of people with chronic conditions.
Chronic illness can also influence your ability to work. You might have to change the way you work to cope with morning stiffness, decreased range of motion and other physical limitations. It may affect your #productivity .
#chronicconditions