What Does Dreaming of Illness Mean?
Traditional Interpretation
According to traditional interpretation (Ibn Sirin), seeing illness in a dream is often read by opposites and may point to the end of troubles and the coming of healing; however, some sources also say it can signify religious weakness, neglect of worship, or herald an approaching sorrow. Being ill and then recovering may be a sign of deliverance from troubles and sickness in waking life.
Psychological View
From a modern psychological perspective, a dream of illness may be the subconscious expression of repressed exhaustion, a sense of helplessness, or a neglected need; according to Jung, it can carry the quality of a warning calling the person to pause, look inward, and restore inner balance. In the Freudian reading, it may point to a hidden anxiety or a fear of losing control taking on a bodily image.
By Context
According to Ibn Sirin (painless Illness)
Seeing oneself ill without feeling any pain is considered in some traditional sources an unfavorable sign advising caution; feeling pain and then recovering may be interpreted as healing.
Recovering from Illness
Seeing oneself fall ill and then find healing may indicate that current troubles and worries will end and relief will come.
Seeing Someone Else Ill
Seeing a familiar person ill may point to a worry concerning that person, while seeing a stranger ill may be interpreted as wealth and gain coming to the dreamer.
Seeing Oneself in a Hospital Bed
Lying in a hospital may, in some sources, point to pleasing developments, material abundance, and a general easing in life.