Chronic condition Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Chronic condition - Essay Example II diabetes then discuss the experience of the patient’s diabetes, and compare this with the typical lived experience of those suffering the same condition. It shall then present an outline of any differences in the perceptions held by the patient and their family members concerning their diabetes compared to that of the general community. Finally, it shall discuss what self-management the patient requires, as well as the discharge plan and community referrals. This case study is being carried out in order to establish clear pathways of disease processes, especially in relation to chronic diseases. Diabetes is a chronic disease which is currently affecting about 300 million people around the world. In fact, in 2004, about 3.4 million died from afflictions related to this disease. About 80% of these deaths have been seen in the poorer and middle income states and these deaths are seen to double by the year 2030 (WHO, 2011). According to the World Health Organization (2011), diabetes is a â€Å"chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces†. This condition then leads to increased blood sugar or hyperglycaemia which, if uncontrolled, can eventually cause serious damage to the body’s nerves and blood vessels. This disease is classified into type I, which is insulin-dependent diabetes with the body’s inability to produce enough insulin for normal functioning; and to type II diabetes or non-insulin dependent diabetes which is basically the body’s ineffective u se of insulin (WHO, 2011). Type II is the more common type of diabetes and is the type which is currently affecting Ronald. And despite the ominous gravity of this disease on the human body, it is however a preventable, if not a curable illness. Ronald was first diagnosed with diabetes at the age of 57. He recalls the initial symptoms which he felt before seeking consult included: excessive thirst,