Talk:Degenerative disease
Degenerative diseases are conditions characterized by the progressive degeneration or deterioration of cells, tissues, or organs in the body. This results in the impairment or loss of normal function, and is often associated with aging, although they can occur in individuals of all ages due to various factors.
Causes and Types[edit source]
Degenerative diseases have diverse etiologies, with causes ranging from genetic predisposition to environmental factors such as lifestyle and diet. For example, neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease have been linked to both genetic factors and environmental exposures.
Other types of degenerative diseases affect different body systems. In the musculoskeletal system, conditions such as Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis lead to the gradual deterioration of joint tissues. Atherosclerosis, a condition affecting the cardiovascular system, is characterized by the progressive buildup of plaque in the arteries.
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Diagnosis and Management[edit source]
Diagnosis of degenerative diseases often involves the use of imaging techniques, lab tests, and sometimes, genetic testing. For instance, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) can be used to identify degenerative changes in the brain, spine, or joints.
Management of these conditions is usually focused on slowing the progression of the disease, managing symptoms, and improving the quality of life. This might involve medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, or in some cases, surgery.
Prevention[edit source]
Preventive strategies for degenerative diseases often involve lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol intake. These measures are particularly important for conditions like heart disease, where lifestyle factors play a significant role.
References[edit source]
Karran, E., Mercken, M., De Strooper, B. (2011). "The amyloid cascade hypothesis for Alzheimer's disease: an appraisal for the development of therapeutics". Nature Reviews Drug Discovery. 10(9): 698–712. doi:10.1038/nrd3505. Loeser, R.F., Goldring, S.R., Scanzello, C.R., Goldring, M.B. (2012). "Osteoarthritis: a disease of the joint as an organ". Arthritis and Rheumatism. 64(6): 1697–1707. doi:10.1002/art.34453. Libby, P., Ridker, P.M., Maseri, A. (2002). "Inflammation and atherosclerosis". Circulation. 105(9): 1135–1143. doi:10.1161/hc0902.104353.
