5 Most Common Chronic Diseases

A chronic disease lasts for a long time or frequently recurs. Chronic diseases are some of the most common health problems in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than half of all Americans have at least one chronic disease. There are many different types of chronic diseases, and they can affect people of all ages. If you have a chronic illness of any kind, you need to see a specialist in chronic disease management in South Charleston to improve your quality of life. Below are some common examples of chronic diseases.

1. Hypertension

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common chronic disease. It is often called the “silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms. If you experience any symptoms, they may include headaches, dizziness, or blurred vision. High blood pressure can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other serious health problems if left untreated. You should see a doctor if you have high blood pressure to get it under control.

2. Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that causes people to feel pain across their bodies. There is no cure for the condition, and it can make everyday tasks like walking or cooking very difficult. It often affects women more than men, most common in middle-aged adults. Common fibromyalgia symptoms may range from mild to severe and can include fatigue, headaches, joint pain, and memory problems. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for fibromyalgia, but your doctor will likely recommend a combination of therapies like medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

3. Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, and it occurs when your body is unable to use insulin properly. Insulin works like a key that opens cells to allow glucose in. When you have diabetes, this process does not work, and glucose builds up in the body instead of going into cells. If you do not treat your diabetes, it can lead to other health problems like heart disease, kidney disease, and blindness. Diabetes treatment usually includes diet changes, exercise, and medication.

4. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD is a chronic lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. The primary cause of COPD is smoking, but exposure to secondhand smoke and air pollution can also contribute to the development of the disease. Symptoms of COPD include coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. The condition can make it difficult to do everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs. There is no cure for COPD, but treatments can help you manage the disease. These treatments may include medication, oxygen therapy, and lifestyle changes.

5. Asthma

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that makes it difficult for air to move in and out of your lungs. When you have asthma, the lining of your airways becomes inflamed and swollen, which causes them to narrow and blocks airflow to and from your lungs. Asthma symptoms may include coughing, scratchy throat, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Many people with asthma use inhalers to help them breathe easier during an asthma attack, but some need to be on steroid medications to control their condition.

To summarize, a chronic disease lasts for a long time or frequently recurs. Some chronic conditions have no cure, so you need to work with an established disease management specialist to put them under control. Some of the most common chronic diseases include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, diabetes, fibromyalgia, and hypertension.