
degenerative disease
A degenerative disease is a medical condition characterized by the gradual decline of function or structure in specific tissues or organs over time. These diseases often affect the body's abilities, leading to symptoms like pain, weakness, or impaired movement. Common examples include Alzheimer's disease, which impacts memory and cognition, and osteoarthritis, which affects joints. Unlike infections or injuries, degenerative diseases generally worsen over time and can be chronic, meaning they persist for a long duration. Management often focuses on alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life, as complete cures are rarely available.