Degenerative diseases
Degenerative Diseases
Degenerative diseases (/dɪˈdʒɛnərətɪv diːˈziːzɪz/), also known as Degenerative disorders, are a group of conditions characterized by the progressive deterioration or loss of function in the cells, tissues, or organs of the body. The term "degenerative" comes from the Latin word "degenerare," which means "to decline or deteriorate."
Degenerative diseases can affect various parts of the body, including the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, and cardiovascular system. They are often associated with aging, but can also be caused by genetic factors, environmental influences, and lifestyle choices.
Types of Degenerative Diseases
There are many types of degenerative diseases, including:
- Alzheimer's disease: A progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking skills, and the ability to carry out simple tasks.
- Parkinson's disease: A neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, causing symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination.
- Huntington's disease: A genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain.
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): A group of rare neurological diseases that primarily involve the nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscles.
- Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint disease that leads to the breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone.
- Atherosclerosis: A disease in which plaque builds up inside the arteries, leading to heart disease and stroke.
Treatment and Management
Treatment for degenerative diseases often focuses on managing symptoms, slowing the progression of the disease, and improving quality of life. This may involve medication, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.
Research into degenerative diseases is ongoing, with scientists seeking to understand their causes and develop new treatments. This includes research into stem cell therapy, gene therapy, and other innovative approaches.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Degenerative diseases
- Wikipedia's article - Degenerative diseases
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