Objective 6-Chronic Illnesses and Management

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts related to chronic illnesses and their management, based on the lecture notes.

Chronic Illness

Conditions that last a year or more, requiring ongoing medical attention and/or limiting activities of daily living.

Prevalence

The rising occurrence or frequency of chronic illnesses, becoming a global health concern.

Nonfatal Chronic Illness

Conditions that do not lead to death, such as osteoarthritis or vision problems.

Fatal Chronic Conditions

Serious chronic conditions that can eventually lead to death, such as cancers and organ system failures.

Acute Illness

Illnesses that occur suddenly and often without warning, like stroke or myocardial infarction.

Management of Chronic Illness

The process of managing a chronic condition to maintain a quality of life.

Blurred Lines

The indistinct boundaries between acute and chronic illnesses, where chronic conditions can have acute flare-ups.

Frailty Syndrome

A condition in older adults characterized by multiple co-morbidities and both mental and physical decline.

Iatrogenesis

A complication or adverse effect resulting from healthcare interventions.

Coping Factors

Elements that influence an individual's ability to manage chronic illness, including support and access to care.

Promoting Wellness

Focusing on adaptation and positivity for those living with chronic illness, emphasizing self-management.

Common Chronic illnesses

Examples include high blood pressure, arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes.

Osteoarthritis

A degenerative joint disease affecting many Canadians, characterized by joint pain and stiffness.

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

A common form of arthritis in older adults, typically presenting with pain in the neck and upper arms.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

A chronic autoimmune inflammatory disorder affecting the joints.

Gout

A form of arthritis caused by an accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, often painful.

Hypertension

A condition where blood pressure readings exceed normal levels, increasing health risks if untreated.

Myocardial Infarction

Commonly known as a heart attack, often arising from untreated hypertension.

Heart Failure

A condition where the heart cannot pump sufficient blood to meet the body's needs.

Diabetes

A chronic condition characterized by insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production.

Polydipsia

Excessive thirst, often a symptom of diabetes.

Polyuria

Excessive urination, commonly seen in uncontrolled diabetes.

Self-Care Skills

Essential skills individuals must learn to manage their chronic conditions effectively.

Cerebral Vascular Accident

A stroke, which can lead to significant residual effects and is associated with chronic health issues.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

A group of lung diseases that obstruct airflow, commonly caused by smoking.

Sputum Production

The production of mucus, which can indicate respiratory issues; its color can be significant for diagnoses.

Cancer Prevention

Measures to reduce the risk of cancer, including not smoking and maintaining a healthy diet.

Chronic Illness Trajectory

The course or progression of a chronic illness, including various phases from onset to dying.

Restorative Care

Healthcare focused on regaining maximal function and quality of life.

Health Risks of Aging

Increased susceptibility to chronic conditions as people age.

Lifestyle Choices

Health behaviors, including diet and physical activity, that can affect chronic illness risk.

Self-management Programs

Programs designed to help individuals manage their chronic illnesses effectively.

Assistive Devices

Tools that help individuals cope with disabilities related to chronic illnesses.

Chronic Illness Management Goals

Aim to relieve symptoms, improve quality of life, and prevent complications.

Medical Complications

Negative effects that can arise from treatments or interventions for chronic illnesses.

Quality of Life

A measure of the general well-being of individuals, often affected by chronic conditions.

Support Systems

Networks of family, friends, and healthcare providers that assist individuals managing chronic illnesses.

Health Care Provider's Role

The responsibilities of professionals in assisting patients with chronic illness management.

Risk Factors

Conditions or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing chronic illnesses.

Chronic Residual Disability

Long-term impairments resulting from chronic illnesses that affect daily living.

Multiple Co-morbidities

The presence of two or more chronic conditions in an individual, affecting management and treatment.

Psychological Adaptations

Mental adjustments individuals make in response to living with chronic illness.

Supportive Therapies

Various non-pharmacological methods to aid the treatment of chronic illness.

Assistive Technology

Technological devices designed to help individuals with chronic conditions manage their daily lives.

Nutrition

Dietary habits that play an essential role in managing chronic illnesses.

Healthcare Accessibility

The ease of obtaining necessary health services and support for chronic illness management.

Preventative Health Measures

Actions taken to prevent chronic illnesses from developing.