An acute medical condition is a condition that generally develops suddenly and lasts a short period of time. It can last for a week or two.
Causes
Acute conditions can be caused by an infection or a virus. In addition to this, it can be caused by an injury due to an accident or misuse of drugs or medication. It requires immediate medical attention due to the health risks involved.
Symptoms
These conditions happen suddenly and they are accompanied by distinct symptoms that require urgent medical attention. For example, the doctor can treat you for a broken bone which will heal over time whereas a common cold will disappear within a few days. Acute medical condition last for a short while and the patient recovers fully.
Types of Acute Medical Conditions
Acute respiratory syndrome
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome is a viral infection. Its symptoms include difficulty in breathing, headaches, chills, and fever. The virus does not respond to antibiotics and will eventually go away. In extreme cases, breathing assistance will be required.
Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia
It is a growing type of bone cancer that requires immediate medical attention for a cure. The lymphocyte cells in the bone marrow remain immature and gradually replace the mature ones. Immediate treatment can facilitate fast healing.
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
It is a serious condition that is facilitated by major injuries, shock, pneumonia, severe illness or inhalants. It is accompanied by rapid breathing which does not supplement the blood with enough oxygen. Organ failure begins to occur due to lack of enough oxygen.
Acute Bronchitis
It is an infection of the airways that last for a short period of time; a few weeks or so. The condition is caused by the same virus that causes the common cold. Smoking is also a major contributor to acute bronchitis. Symptoms can include wheezing, chills and shortness of breath. Treatment options consist of rest and over-the-counter medications.
Other notable acute medical conditions include:
- A sore throat
- Heart attack
- Burn
- Broken bones
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Source: https://www.ncoa.org/blog/chronic-versus-acute-disease/
Author - Dr. Ramandeep Sidhu
SPECIALTIES: Percutaneous aneurysm repair, endovascular treatment of peripheral arterial disease, treatment for varicose veins, open vascular surgical procedures, deep vein thrombosis/pulmonary embolism treatment and aesthetic services.
