A chronic disease is one that lasts for a long time. During that time, it may be
constantly present, or it may go into remission and periodically relapse.
Acute vs. Chronic Disease
Acute conditions are severe and sudden in onset. This could describe anything from a
broken bone to an asthma attack. A chronic condition, by contrast is a long-developing
syndrome, such as osteoporosis or asthma. Note that osteoporosis, a chronic
condition, may cause a broken bone, an acute condition. An acute asthma attack