neurodegenerative diseases Flashcards
What is a neurodegenerative disorder?
A disease that occurs when cells within the central nervous system stop working or die
This leads to problems with movement, speech, memory, and other functions depending on the area affected.
What is the difference between a disease and a disorder?
A disease typically has a known cause, clear symptoms, and often visible signs, while a disorder refers to a disruption of normal physical or mental functions and may not have a clear cause
All diseases can be considered disorders, but not all disorders are classified as diseases.
What is Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?
Degeneration of nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain
Known as ‘Lou Gehrig’s disease’, with over 3,000 Canadians living with ALS.
What are the two types of ALS?
- Sporadic - most common form (90-95% of cases)
- Familial - inherited, accounts for 5-10% of cases
What are common symptoms of ALS?
- Twitching/cramping
- Loss of motor control
- Tripping/falling
- Slurred speech
- Uncontrollable laughter or crying (emotional lability)
What is Huntington’s Disease?
A brain disease inherited within families that causes deterioration in a person’s physical, mental, and emotional abilities
Approximately 1 in 7,000 people in Canada have Huntington’s Disease.
What are symptoms of Huntington’s Disease?
- Involuntary movements (chorea)
- Impaired coordination and balance
- Difficulty thinking and reasoning
- Mood changes (depression, irritability)
- Memory loss and difficulty concentrating
- Slurred speech and trouble swallowing
What is Progressive Supranuclear Palsy?
A rare neurological disorder affecting body movements, walking, balance, and eye movements
Affects about 5-6 people per 100,000.
What are the symptoms of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy?
- Difficulty with balance and frequent falls
- Stiffness and slowed movements
- Problems with eye movement
- Speech and swallowing difficulties
- Mood changes and cognitive impairment
What is Multiple System Atrophy?
A rare condition of the nervous system affecting approximately 3 to 5 people per 100,000
Onset typically occurs within one’s 60s.
What are the two types of Multiple System Atrophy?
- Parkinsonian type MSA (MSA-P)
- Cerebellar type MSA (MSA-C)
What are symptoms of Parkinsonian type MSA (MSA-P)?
- Symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease: stiffness, slow movement, tremors
What are symptoms of Cerebellar type MSA (MSA-C)?
- Affects coordination and balance: unsteady gait, difficulty with speech and movement control
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
A brain disorder that causes uncontrollable or unintended movements
Symptoms worsen over time.
Who does Parkinson’s Disease affect?
1 in every 500 people in Canada, with over 100,000 Canadians living with PD today
Majority of diagnoses happen over the age of 65.
What are the known causes and risk factors for Parkinson’s Disease?
- No known cause
- Increased age
- Genetic history
- Ethnicity
- Exposure to environmental toxins
- Male gender
What does the acronym TRAP stand for in Parkinson’s Disease?
- Tremor
- Rigidity
- Akinesia & bradykinesia
- Postural instability
What are early non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?
- Drooling
- Mask-like facial expression
- Restless leg syndrome
- Loss of senses
What are the stages of Parkinson’s Disease?
- Stage #1: Mild symptoms, able to perform day-to-day tasks
- Stage #2: Worsening tremor and stiffness, poor posture
- Stage #3: Slowed movement, loss of balance
- Stage #4: Severe symptoms, significant problems in daily living
- Stage #5: Impossible to walk and stand, confined to wheelchair
How is Parkinson’s Disease diagnosed?
No blood or laboratory tests for non-genetic cases; medical history and neurological examination are performed.
What treatments are available for Parkinson’s Disease?
No cure; pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options
Includes strength training, balance and agility exercises, aerobic activities, and stretching.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease (AD)?
The most common type of dementia affecting memory, thinking, and behavior
Symptoms worsen over time.
How many people worldwide are living with dementia?
55 million people worldwide, with approximately 60% having Alzheimer’s Disease.
What are common symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease?
- Memory problems
- Difficulty communicating
- Behavior changes
- Social withdrawals
- Aggressiveness
- Forgetfulness
- Trouble with decision making
