Important: Medical Information
Information provided by Bluebird Aware is for general awareness and signposting purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified health professional regarding any health concerns or before making changes to your medical care.
Explore common non-visible physical disabilities
Fibromyalgia
A long-term condition that causes pain all over the body. It often includes extreme tiredness, muscle stiffness, difficulty sleeping and problems with memory and concentration.
Possible everyday impacts
Chronic widespread pain, fatigue, 'fibro-fog', and sleep disturbances.
Osteoporosis
A health condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more likely to break. It develops slowly over several years and is often only diagnosed when a fall causes a break.
Possible everyday impacts
Increased risk of fractures, potential for back pain and loss of height.
Osteoarthritis
The most common type of arthritis in the UK. It causes joints to become stiff and painful. While it can affect any joint, it most commonly affects the knees, hips and hands.
Possible everyday impacts
Joint pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and swelling.
Heart and circulatory conditions
A group of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. These can include coronary heart disease, heart failure and heart rhythm problems.
Possible everyday impacts
Shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, and reduced stamina.
Respiratory and lung conditions
Conditions that affect the lungs and breathing, such as asthma, COPD and bronchiectasis. They can significantly impact someone's ability to exert themselves physically.
Possible everyday impacts
Breathlessness, wheezing, chest tightness, and chronic cough.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)
A long-term condition with a wide range of symptoms, most commonly extreme tiredness that does not go away with rest. It can affect many body systems.
Possible everyday impacts
Debilitating fatigue, post-exertional malaise, cognitive impairment, and pain.
Chronic pain
Pain that lasts for more than 3 months. It may follow an injury or be associated with an underlying condition, but sometimes the cause is unclear.
Possible everyday impacts
Persistent pain, reduced mobility, disrupted sleep and effects on everyday wellbeing.
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
A common condition that affects the digestive system. It causes symptoms like stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation which can last for days or months.
Possible everyday impacts
Abdominal pain, unpredictable bowel habits, bloating, and fatigue.
Autoimmune and inflammatory conditions
Conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and Crohn's disease.
Possible everyday impacts
Joint inflammation, fatigue, organ involvement, and fluctuating symptoms.
Neurological conditions
Conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord and nerves. These can include multiple sclerosis and chronic migraines.
Possible everyday impacts
Cognitive issues, mobility problems, sensory changes, and pain.
Long COVID
A term used to describe symptoms that continue or develop after having COVID-19. Symptoms can last for many weeks or months and vary between individuals.
Possible everyday impacts
Fatigue, breathlessness, 'brain fog', heart palpitations, and muscle aches.
Individual experiences vary. This information is a concise, accessible explanation.
Content and external links last reviewed: 6 September 2026.