A chronic disease is defined by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) as a long-lasting condition that is the leading cause of death and disability in the United States.  7 of 10 deaths per year are due to chronic disease and accounts for 86% of our nation’s health care costs.  Chronic disease cannot be prevented by vaccines, cured by medications and do not disappear over time.

Examples of chronic diseases are:  allergies, asthma, diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, lupus, and fibromyalgia.  It is important to learn as much as you can about your disease and to be on top of any changes in your condition.

Lupus is an example of a chronic disease that sometimes mimics other diseases, as the symptoms can be very similar in rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia.  You may see a number of specialists with this disease, depending on your specific issues.  It is important to have a primary care physician that can coordinate care with the specialists and you also need to be vigilant about your care and any changes in your symptoms.  With lupus, the goal is to treat flare ups and to minimize any complications or organ damage that can occur.  Lupus can become very debilitating quickly.

Naperville is hosting the Illinois Lupus Walk for the Western Suburbs 8/8/15.  This is a fundraiser that is held to provide programs and services to people with lupus at no charge.  http://www.lupusil.org/illinois-lupus-walk-2015.html   This is a good opportunity to have some fun and provide support for those who suffer with chronic disease.