With age, the immune system gets compromised, and this is why elderly adults suffer from some of the rarest diseases. In some cases, this is because of genetics. In others, the reason remains unknown until the end. If detected on time, some of these diseases can be treated. However, the best route is to live a healthy life and try to avoid these conditions.
Rare Diseases Found in Older Adults
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease is one of the rarest diseases in the world. Cases of it are recorded every few years and are specific to particular geographical areas. At the moment, doctors are not sure of the cause, but it’s believed that it’s a result of the body coming into contact with infected tissue during transplants. Seniors who had an organ transplanted in last five years and who experience symptoms similar to those of dementia should visit a doctor.
Fabry Disease
If your family had issues with renal or enzyme disorders throughout the years, you should do a checkup for this disease every now and then. If discovered on time, elderly adults can get a treatment called enzyme replacement therapy. Some of the symptoms of Fabry disease are stomach cramping, sparse hair growth, skin rashes, and general weakness.
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Stiff Person Syndrome
Better known as stiff-man syndrome, this disease is in the class of autoimmune diseases. It is quite similar to lupus and fibromyalgia. If not treated on time, it can be hazardous, causing seizures and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). According to some studies, one of the possible causes for this disease is tetanus.
Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD)
This disease is hard to diagnose, as its symptoms vary. Similarly to dementia, CBD can be a consequence of specific proteins that kill brain cells. Older adults who are diagnosed with this condition need to be thoroughly tested before starting their treatment.
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