Degenerative diseases like heart disease, cancer, osteoporosis, and diabetes are incurable but can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. They destroy tissue over time and are caused by the body’s inability to function properly. Risk factors include genetics and unhealthy lifestyle habits. Some degenerative diseases can be prevented by following healthy eating and lifestyle plans.
Some of the more common degenerative diseases are heart disease, cancer, osteoporosis and diabetes. Neurological diseases can include multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. These conditions are typically not considered curable, although most can be managed successfully using a combination of medications and lifestyle changes. The exact life expectancy and expected quality of life varies based on the exact type of disease.
A degenerative disease is one that will eventually progress and destroy large amounts of tissue over time. They are generally considered incurable, although some can be stopped or reversed over time with proper treatment. This is not considered the same as a cure because by definition, a cured disease is one in which the source of the disease is removed from the body, allowing the condition to correct itself. With a degenerative disease, the cause of the disease usually stems from the body being unable to function properly. For example, arthritis is a degenerative disease that results from the body’s attack on its own tissues rather than external viruses or bacteria.
Heart disease is one of the most commonly diagnosed degenerative diseases. It is sometimes caused by genetic factors or heart defects present at birth, but most cases result from unhealthy lifestyle choices. A diet high in fat and calories and a sedentary lifestyle are all potential risk factors for heart disease. Treatments often include changing these unhealthy lifestyle habits and engaging in more positive ones. Medications and surgery are also common treatments.
Cancer is also among the most common degenerative diseases. It can come in many forms and infect almost any area of the body. Just like heart disease, cancer develops over time, and those affected by the disease usually have a combination of genetic and environmental risk factors. The same unhealthy lifestyle habits that put a person at risk for heart disease can also lead to cancer. Additionally, exposure to harmful substances, such as radiation, and a strong genetic link can also put you at risk for cancer.
Other degenerative diseases include diabetes and osteoporosis, as well as some brain and nerve disorders. Some of these are preventable by following healthy eating and lifestyle plans, but genetics also play a role in each of these diseases. While incurable, diabetes, osteoporosis and multiple sclerosis can be managed and patients can still live full lives. Those with more aggressive degenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s or Lou Gehrig’s disease, will eventually die from the disease in most cases.
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