noun
chronic disease; chronic illness; old complaint
Refers to a long-standing medical condition that a person has, often managed over time. Can be used for both serious and minor recurring ailments.
彼は持病の腰痛に悩まされている。
He suffers from chronic lower back pain.
持病が
I have a chronic condition, so I go to the hospital regularly.
noun
bad habit; intractable habit
Figurative use likening a persistent bad habit to a chronic illness. Often used self-deprecatingly or humorously.
遅刻が持病で、なかなか直らない。
Being late is a chronic habit of mine that I just can't seem to fix.