Degenerative

Degenerative is a term often used in medicine to describe a condition or disease that deteriorates over time. This can refer to diseases of the body's tissues, organs, or other structures. Degenerative diseases include conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Osteoarthritis.

Overview

Degenerative diseases are often associated with aging, but they can also be caused by injury or disease. They are characterized by the progressive loss of structure or function of cells, tissues, or organs. This can lead to the weakening or failure of the affected part of the body.

Types of Degenerative Diseases

There are many types of degenerative diseases, including:

• Neurodegenerative diseases: These affect the neurons in the human brain. Examples include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease.

• Degenerative disc disease: This is a condition in which the intervertebral discs of the spine deteriorate or break down, leading to pain and possibly loss of movement.

• Osteoarthritis: This is a type of arthritis that occurs when the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones wears down over time.

• Macular degeneration: This is a medical condition which may result in blurred or no vision in the center of the visual field.

Causes and Risk Factors

The causes of degenerative diseases are varied and can include genetic factors, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. Risk factors can include age, family history, and certain behaviors such as smoking or lack of exercise.

Treatment

Treatment for degenerative diseases often focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This can include medication, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

See Also

• Aging
• Chronic disease
• Genetic disorder

Degenerative Resources
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