Neurodegenerative disorder
Neurodegenerative disorder
Neurodegenerative disorder (/ˌnʊəroʊdɪˈdʒɛnərətɪv dɪsˈɔːdər/) is a term for a range of conditions which primarily affect the neurons in the human brain. Neurons are the building blocks of the nervous system which includes the brain and spinal cord.
Etymology
The term "neurodegenerative disorder" is derived from 'neuro' which refers to the nervous system, 'degenerative' which means causing deterioration or wearing out, and 'disorder' which refers to a state of confusion or a disruption to the regular or normal functions.
Types of Neurodegenerative Disorders
Neurodegenerative disorders include several conditions, each affecting different types of neurons in various parts of the brain. Some of the most common neurodegenerative disorders include:
- Alzheimer's disease: This is the most common type of neurodegenerative disorder, primarily affecting memory and cognitive functions.
- Parkinson's disease: This disorder primarily affects movement, causing symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia.
- Huntington's disease: This is a genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain.
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): Also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, this disorder affects nerve cells that control voluntary muscles.
Symptoms
Symptoms of neurodegenerative disorders can vary greatly, but often include problems with movement (ataxia), mental functioning (dementia), or a combination of the two. Early symptoms might be subtle and can include memory problems, mood changes, or difficulty with coordination.
Causes
The causes of neurodegenerative disorders are often not well understood. They are thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Some disorders, such as Huntington's disease, are inherited.
Treatment
There is currently no cure for neurodegenerative disorders. Treatment is aimed at managing symptoms, slowing the progression of the disease, and improving quality of life.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Neurodegenerative disorder
- Wikipedia's article - Neurodegenerative disorder
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