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.

Don’t be the diabetes police

Follow these handy tips for healthy interactions with family and friends who are battling this burdensome disease.

Patient Story

‘The best hope you can have’

JJ Smith’s parents moved to a new home and found new doctors—all to save their son.

Patient Story

‘I collapsed like Jell-O’

Paralyzed by Guillain-Barré syndrome, Rich Toole found his way back to mobility through intense physical therapy and unyielding positivity.

Allergic to red meat? Blame a tick

Scientists continue to uncover the biomechanics of tick bites—and their findings suggest these little monsters pose even more trouble than once thought.

For elderly, UTI poses serious risk

Immediate treatment with antibiotics is critical for older adults, as untreated cases can lead to bloodstream infection and death.

Patient Story

Merritt’s mystery

Merritt Smith experienced seizures and missed developmental milestones. Genetic testing revealed the cause—a missing chunk of a chromosome.

Daytime fatigue? A nap could help

An afternoon rest has its distinct advantages—but watch out for the downsides.

‘A little bit of hope’

For the first time in more than 20 years, a new type of treatment is approved for clinical depression. Ketamine has shown promising results in drug trials.

Patient Story

Eager to breathe

An Ionia man becomes the first in Michigan to undergo an innovative new treatment for severe emphysema.

Tobacco’s latest casualty: Vision

Research shows that smoking can damage perception of color and contrast, with heavy smokers suffering the most severe deficits.

The science of shape

Researchers are quickly demystifying the genetic characteristics that factor into body shape and weight-related disease development.

Patient Story

‘It’s a wonder I’m alive’

When Lester Cramer developed a blockage in his carotid artery, his surgeons used a new technique shown to reduce risk of strokes.