Neurodegenerative disorders
Neurodegenerative disorders
Neurodegenerative disorders (/nʊəroʊdɪˈdʒɛnərətɪv dɪsˈɔːrdərz/) are a group of diseases characterized by the progressive degeneration or death of nerve cells, also known as neurons. The term is derived from the Greek words "neuron" meaning nerve and "degenerare" meaning to decline or deteriorate.
Types of Neurodegenerative disorders
There are several types of neurodegenerative disorders, including:
- Alzheimer's disease - A progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking skills, and the ability to carry out simple tasks. It is the most common cause of dementia in older adults.
- Parkinson's disease - A disorder of the nervous system that affects movement, often including tremors and difficulty with walking, coordination, and balance.
- Huntington's disease - A genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain, leading to physical and mental abilities deterioration.
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) - Also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, it is a specific disorder that causes the death of neurons controlling voluntary muscles.
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) - A potentially disabling disease of the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system).
Symptoms
Symptoms of neurodegenerative disorders can vary greatly but often include problems with movement (motor symptoms), mental functioning (cognitive symptoms), and mood (psychiatric symptoms).
Causes
The exact causes of neurodegenerative disorders are not fully understood. However, they are thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Some disorders, like Huntington's disease, are caused by specific genetic mutations.
Treatment
Treatment for neurodegenerative disorders typically focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This can include medication, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.
See also
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