Top 10 Chronic Illness Resources You Need to Know About
Chronic illness is a medical condition that persists for an extended period and can be debilitating. It can be challenging to manage, and patients require immediate and consistent support for the long haul. Fortunately, the internet makes finding support resources for chronic illnesses easier than ever before. This article highlights the top ten chronic illness resources that you need to know about.
1. Healthcare Support Groups
Social media has made it easier for patients to interact with others suffering from the same condition worldwide. This resource is particularly crucial for individuals who may feel isolated or misunderstood in their communities. Posting on sites like Facebook and Twitter using specific hashtags provides a platform for commiseration, sharing experiences, and advice.
2. MedlinePlus
MedlinePlus is an online library run by the US National Library of Medicine that provides comprehensive healthcare information for millions of people living with chronic illnesses in both English and Spanish. MedlinePlus provides information on medical tests, drugs, treatments, and a vast array of illness-specific conditions.
3. Healthwise Knowledgebase
Healthwise Knowledgebase is a resource tool that provides evidence-based patient education about health and medical conditions. It covers topics such as symptoms, causes, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment options, and much more.
4. PatientsLikeMe
PatientsLikeMe is another important online resource that brings together patients to exchange information and experiences about chronic illness. The site allows users to track their symptoms, treatments, and activities. It also allows easy comparisons of side-effect profiles and medication response across patients.
5. National Resource Center on LGBT Aging
This resource addresses the challenges that chronically ill people in the LGBTQ+ community may face and provides access to a vast array of resources on related topics such as medical care, housing, and legal issues.
6. Pain Management Network
Pain management is a crucial topic for many chronic illness sufferers, and this resource offers a platform for discussion, advice, and support for patients with chronic pain conditions. It covers several pain management techniques, drug therapies, and alternative remedies.
7. National Alliance on Mental Illness
Living with a chronic illness may present mental health challenges, and this resource provides support, information, and advocacy on mental health services when it comes to mental health. Their website features an extensive resource library and helpline to address any questions and concerns.
8. American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association (AARDA)
AARDA is a patient advocacy organization representing individuals with various autoimmune diseases, including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid diseases. This extensive resource provides comprehensive education on autoimmune disease, assistance in finding suitable health care, and access to clinical trials.
9. HealthCentral
This site provides information on a broad range of health topics, including chronic illnesses. Its main goal is to provide individuals and their caregivers with up-to-date, practical health information. HealthCentral also includes webinars, podcasts, and expert interviews.
10. CaringBridge
CaringBridge is a non-profit organization that provides free websites for people with chronic illnesses to connect with their family and friends. This resource allows caregivers to provide updates on the patient’s condition, including pictures, messages, and stories.
Conclusion
Living with a chronic illness can be a challenge, but with these top ten chronic illness resources, patients can access comprehensive information, support, and tools for managing their condition. These resources provide complementary health care knowledge aimed at providing personal empowerment and advocacy for better health outcomes. It is essential to explore the vast array of internet resources to learn all there is to know about chronic illness health management.
