What Is Corticobasal Degeneration?
Typically a slowly progressive disorder, corticobasal degeneration is a neurological disorder affecting multiple areas of the brain. Commonly characterized by loss of nerve cells and the shrinkage of different areas of the brain, corticobasal degeneration typically affects the cerebral cortex and the basal ganglia. The onset of the disease typically begins at or around the age of 60, often affecting one side of the body initially.
The symptoms of corticobasal degeneration are considered relatively similar to that of Parkinson disease. Common symptoms include poor coordination, loss or impairment of voluntary muscle activity, rigidity, impaired balance and abnormal muscle posture and tone. Additional symptoms include impairments in cognitive function, decreased ability to make familiar, purposeful movements, trouble with speech, muscular jerks, and difficulty swallowing. An individual affected by corticobasal degeneration may also eventually lose his or her ability to walk.
There are currently no known causes of the disorder. However, some researchers believe corticobasal degeneration has ties to environmental toxins and common infections.
While no progressive treatments are available for the progression of the disease, treatment of the associated symptoms offers relief from many of the debilitating effects of corticobasal degeneration. General treatment plans focus on holistic systems that include medication, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and often speech therapy. In addition to these treatment options, however, many natural supplements aid in the regulation of the disease and its symptoms. Low dose naltrexone (LDN) is known for its properties for treating degenerative neurologic diseases. Likewise, antioxidants including alpha lipoic acid, pycnogenol, and omega 3 oil are useful for detoxing the body. Generally speaking, a healthy active lifestyle and diet, keeping the mind and body active mediate additional issues and symptoms.
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