There  are many theories about Nightingale’s chronic illness, which caused her  to be an invalid for most of her adult life. Many people have  interpreted this as hypochondriacal, something of a melodrama of the  Victorian times. Nightingale was rich and could take to her bed. She  became ill during the Crimean War in May 1855 and was diagnosed with a  severe case of Crimean fever. Today Crimean fever is recognized as  Mediterranean fever and is categorized as brucellosis. She developed  spondylitis, or inflammation of the spine. For the next 34 years, she  managed to continue her writing and advocacy, often predicting her  imminent death. Others have claimed that Nightingale suffered from  bipolar disorder, causing her to experience long periods of depression  alternating with remarkable bursts of productivity. Read about the  various theories of her chronic disabling condition and reflect on your  own conclusions about her mysterious illness.

Answer the following question:

With supporting evidence, what are your conclusions about Nightingale’s health condition?