Neurodegenerative disorder

Neurodegenerative disorder 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. Neurons normally don’t reproduce or replace themselves, so when they become damaged or die they cannot be replaced by the body. Neurodegenerative diseases are incurable and debilitating conditions that result in progressive degeneration and / or death of nerve cells. This causes problems with movement (called ataxias), or mental functioning (called dementias).

Causes

The cause of neurodegenerative diseases is often unknown, but some factors such as genetics and lifestyle are known to influence the risk of developing these conditions. In some cases, they can be inherited. In others, they can be caused by a medical condition such as Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease.

Symptoms

Symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases vary widely and can include memory loss, difficulty thinking, difficulty with coordination and balance, and changes in mood or behavior. These symptoms can interfere with a person's ability to function at work or in their personal life.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases can be challenging, as many of the symptoms can be similar to those of other conditions. However, a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests can often identify these conditions.

Treatment

While there is currently no cure for neurodegenerative diseases, there are treatments available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These treatments can include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

See also

• Alzheimer's disease
• Parkinson's disease
• Huntington's disease
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
• Frontotemporal dementia

References

Neurodegenerative disorder Resources
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