Health Challenge & Illnesses

Question 1

Define Illness & Disability?

Answer 1

Illness is the loss of physical or mental health

Disability is the loss of physical or mental function

Question 2

Define Chronic Illness their characteristics

Answer 2

It’s an ongoing illness, slow or gradual in onset, that may or may not grow worse over time

• long-lasting and persistent
• ongoing medical attention
• cannot be cured, the focus is on preventing complications

Chronic Illness eg. Diabetes, Alzheimer disease, Multiple Sclerosis

Question 3

Define Acute Illness and their characteristics

Answer 3

Acute includes illnesses and disabilities that lasts for a relatively short period of time

• Sudden onset, short duration (often days or weeks)
• Often require urgent or short-term care
• Symptoms typically resolve after treatment

Eg. Influenza, Pneumonia, Strep throat

Question 4

What are the effects of Illnesses?

Answer 4

• Impacts physical & mental health
  Change in..
• routine
• work life
• family life
• sexual function
• self image
• Loss of independence & dignity
• Overall quality of life