What is Comorbidity?

Comorbidity in medicine refers to the co-occurrence of one or more additional diseases or disorders alongside a primary disease or disorder. When counted as separate entities, comorbidities refer to each additional disorder or disease present. I mention this especially for anyone new to a first diagnosis to prepare you for the potential reality of additional diagnoses to follow. Comorbidities may require more frequent monitoring and follow-up appointments with healthcare providers throughout their lifetime. For example, Allie’s first official diagnosis was epilepsy at sixteen months. As she grew, her behaviors prompted further testing, leading to a series of additional diagnoses: ADHD, sensory processing disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, developmental and intellectual disorders, autism. Presented simultaneously, these diagnoses characterize a case of medical comorbidity. 
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​​WHY DO WE NEED TO KNOW THIS WORD? 
​While not a fun topic, understanding comorbidities can help you better navigate and manage your loved one’s healthcare journey, making sure that they receive the necessary monitoring and support from healthcare professionals to maintain their well- being throughout their lives.

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