How do we medically define the length of time that a problem has existed? What are the terms we use?
Defining how long a problem has been in existence is integral to determining the diagnosis, prognosis as well as the stage of healing and a host of other factors as well. Furthermore, the definition can also have an effect on the type and variety of interventions that can be applied to solve the issue.
Generally, medical conditions are divided into 3 stages in the following order (from most recent to the most prolonged): acute, subacute and chronic.
- Acute conditions range from the initiation of an issue to about 2 weeks.
- Subacute conditions range from the 2-8 week point after initiation of a problem.
- Finally, chronic conditions are those that have been around for 2-3 months or longer.
A complete and proper diagnosis should include one of the 3 aforementioned terms. This becomes critically important when determining what the proper treatment course may be or even if specialized medical tests are required prior to or concurrent with treatment. Also, while the language may change, these terms are used by medical professionals the world over and thus they carry with them an inherent knowledge regarding an issue. For example, whether I am in Italy, Canada or Iceland a “subacute right ankle sprain” means the same thing.
To book your next appointment with one of our amazing staff, contact our office or book online today!
Author: Dr. Paolo De Ciantis, B.Sc.(Hons.), M.Sc., D.C.