Living with Chronic Conditions

Millions of us suffer from chronic illnesses, from asthma and diabetes to fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Chronic illnesses are persistent and long lasting. Our experts—including those with chronic conditions—offer tips, treatments and advice to ease the burden.

The cat’s meow: the emotional boost of cute videos

It turns out, watching Grumpy Cat can make you less grumpy.

The starting line for fitness

It's easy to get going on a wellness plan—just go for a walk.

Patient Story

COPD: One family fights back

Sharing a common diagnosis, sisters come together to fight the encroaching disease through pulmonary rehab.

Patient Story

‘Getting back to normal’

For 8-year-old leukemia survivor Dawson Babiak, a bearded dragon named Fluffy is a symbol of being healthy.

Hormone link suspected in type 2 diabetes

Aldosterone is one potential connection between chronic conditions.

Make sense of highfalutin’ diets

Diets high in protein can help with rapid weight loss, but they aren't sustainable plans—and they might be dangerous.

For a healthier heart, aim for 6 to 8 hours of sleep

Prolonged nightly sleep deprivation or excessive sleeping should be avoided to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Avoid the ‘Freshman 15’

A doctor shares 5 simple tips that can help you keep off the weight for good.

Go vegetarian the easy way

A savvy dietitian offers 6 tips for revamping your victuals.

Patient Story

Feeling like Iron Man

At 53, Mark Lackey didn't know how much longer he would live. But then a team of experts crafted a unique fix for the hole in his heart.

Can sleepless nights trigger weight gain?

Poor Zzzs can change a range of markers in the blood—including blood sugar, hormone levels and various byproducts of metabolism.

Is a health secret hiding in your infant’s diapers?

People with diabetes, obesity, autoimmune disorders and cancers frequently have fewer short-chain fatty acids. Increasing them may be helpful for restoring a normal gut environment.