Certain shifts in the marital relationship must be made in the face of chronic illness in order for it to survive.  Some coping strategies are unhealthy, and partners must adapt their coping strategies to be more congruent with each other in order to preserve the marriage.  Otherwise, the coping strategies of one partner might inhibit those of the other partner.

Coping with chronic illness as a couple

A style of coping that involves performing an action to mitigate the problem at hand.

Grand Valley State University

The impacts of chronic illness on each partner can interact to place strain on the relationship.  For example, if one spouse has COPD, the resulting lack of oxygenation to the brain can result in changes in perception of one's spouse, which can lead to isolation and/or conflict.  This can increase the risk for health problems in the well spouse.

Impacts of chronic illness on marriage

Cannon, C. A., & Cavanaugh, J. C. (1998). Chronic illness in the context of marriage: A systems perspective of stress and coping in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Families, Systems, & Health, 16(4), 401-418. http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/h0089865

Chronic illness in the context of marriage: A systems perspective of stress and coping in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Problem-focused coping

A style of coping that involves the management of emotional distress. These coping styles tend to be unhealthy, but there are some examples, like turning to religion, that are healthy in situations in which one has no control.

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