Degenerative Diseases: Understanding the Impacts and Treatments - Centre for Continuing Nursing Excellence

Degenerative diseases refer to a group of chronic conditions that cause a gradual decline in the function of certain parts of the body. Some of the most common degenerative diseases include osteoarthritis, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. These diseases can significantly impact the quality of life of patients and their families, leading to physical and mental disability, reduced independence, and even death.

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common degenerative diseases, affecting millions of people globally. It is a progressive disease that affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. This disease is most commonly found in older adults, but it can affect people of any age, particularly those with a history of joint injury.

Parkinson’s disease is another example of a degenerative disease, affecting the nervous system and causing tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement and coordination. This progressive disease can be devastating, leading to a loss of independence and quality of life for patients.

Alzheimer’s disease is another type of degenerative disease that affects the brain, causing memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with daily activities. It is a progressive disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and is one of the leading causes of death in older adults.

While there is no cure for these degenerative diseases, there are various treatments and therapies available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These include medication, physiotherapy, and surgery in some cases. In addition, lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, exercise, and stress management can also help slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.

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