Guest Post // Chronic Illnesses & Ways to Cope*

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What Are Chronic Illnesses?
A Chronic Illness (or Condition) is usually a disease or illness which cannot be cured and lasts for long periods of time. For many, a chronic illness is a life-long issue and can lead to other problems such as depression and anxiety. In fact, one of the most common side effects of Chronic Health Conditions is depression. The stress and strain of everyday living for those who live with a chronic illness can be a major stressful time, but there are some ways to relieve pain…

Examples of Chronic Diseases
Chronic Diseases come in all shapes and sizes, and the symptoms that some people suffer from, others may never experience. They are also not entirely based within one part of the body. For some, their illness is based in their gut. For others, their lungs. Some even suffer from a condition called Fibromyalgia, which affects the entire body altogether. Some other examples of Chronic Conditions include:

• Hypertension
• Asthma
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• HIV
• Schizophrenia
• Chron’s Disease

Tips for Living with a Chronic Illness
Although each Chronic Illness has its own methods of pain control prescribed by the NHS, below is some advice that can help some of the more broader symptoms.

Pain Management
Pain management is one of the hardest things to deal with when you suffer from a chronic illness. The pain can be relentless and depending on your disease, tiresome. If your pain is located in your back, try a handy back massager. These can be attached to chairs, which is great for when you just want to sit down and relax.

Other options for pain management include hot baths, medication, and ensuring you’re sleeping enough.

Household Aids
For many, just getting up and down the stairs can be a major issue for people with Chronic Illnesses. If you can, why don’t you invest in a Stairlift? These can help with the hassle of climbing stairs and can be installed both indoors and outdoors.

Take Your Pills
It can be hard to remember, but taking your pills is extremely important. One way you can remember to take these is to set a reminder on your phone. Alternately, you could invest in a pill box which will help if you often forget having taken your pills for the day.

Join Online Groups
Sometimes, we just need some support from someone who has been in the same position as you. Why not take a look on Facebook and see if you can find groups with people in the same boat as you? You may find that it’s a great place to vent, find tips and talk to people who understand what you’re going through.

Guest post by Gina Kay Daniel