Definition of Secondary Medical Conditions

A secondary medical condition is directly caused by an existing medical condition, and do not on their own. In many cases, treating a secondary medical condition will improve its underlying cause.

Identification

A variety of primary medical conditions can lead to secondary medical conditions. Usually the primary condition is chronic, although it can be any condition that damages any part of the body.

Significance

It is important to identify medical conditions as secondary because it indicates that the primary condition is not under control. By controlling the primary medical condition, many times the patient can eliminate or avoid the secondary condition.

Effects

Some secondary medical conditions, such as infections, are short term and not permanent. However, sometimes secondary medical conditions become permanent, such as heart conditions that result from damage to the organ.

Function

Careful monitoring for secondary medical conditions ensures that the patient receives proper treatment to control both the primary and secondary conditions.

Warning

All medical conditions, including secondary medical conditions, warrant treatment by a medical professional.

Resources

• Secondary Medical Conditions