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World’s Most Rare Diseases You Didn’t Know of

The last week of February marks as the week of World’s Rare Disease Week. With the new types of diseases being discovered every now and then, it isn’t a surprise that we are not even aware of half of the diseases that are likely going to affect our well being. Majority of these rare diseases are either detected at birth or end up affecting the person later in their lives. The Rare Disease Week is celebrated across the world to raise better awareness surrounding these diseases. The reason why they are termed as a rare disease is because of the lesser number of people being affected by it.

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1 - HutchinsonGilford Progeria

The Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria, also often known as Progeria is a very rare genetic condition which makes the individual age a lot faster than the normal time. The same is caused because of a genetic mutation that facilitates quicker aging in the childhood. Even with all the constant research and the trials being conducted, the scientists have still not been able to find a proper cure for Progeria. Some trials with anti growth hormones and even anticancer drugs have been administered by none of them have provided with genuine results.

2- Methemoglobinemia

Also known as the Blue Skin Disorder, M e t h e m o g l o b i n e m i a is characterized by the abnormal bluish appearance of the skin. The same is caused because of the abnormal production of methemoglobin which is a type of hemoglobin that is responsible for carrying iron in the blood. While the normal range is the presence of 1% methamoglobin in the blood stream, the ones suffering from Methemoglobinemia have 10-20% in their blood. These individuals are also at risk of developing heart conditions and can even experience the risks of premature death.

3 - Field’s disease

Named after the first twins who showcased the signs, Field’s disease is a condition that affected Catherine and Kristie Fields from Wales in the United Kingdom. Even though the doctors are still not sure what to call this disease, they believe that the same is characterized by the gradual neuromuscular degeneration in the body of the individual. The condition causes gradual deterioration of the muscles in the body that later end up restricting the movement in the individuals. Further studies are needed to assess the cause behind the condition and find a suitable therapeutic approach for the cure.

4- Kuru

The reason why Kuru is considered such a rare disease is because of the fact that it is localized to a certain area in the remote region of New Guinea among the Fort tribe. Even though this is termed as a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy, it is not likely for you to experience that unless you are in that area. The condition is believed to be caused because of a unique group of proteins, known as the prions which contributes to brain tissue buildup that later contributes to the persistent risks of brain damage. Majority of the researchers and experts believe that the only way to contract this disease is if one eats the brain of the affected individual.

5 - Fibrodysplasia Ossificans

Progressiva

Yet another one of the rare diseases that affects just a percentage of the world population is the Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva. This disease eats away at the connective tissue, causing deformities to the bone structure in the body. Even this one can be detected at birth or later on in life. One of the most common signs of this condition is the deformed big toe. With the complications that this condition brings along, it affects the day to day activities in the lives of the affected individual. It gravely affects their mobility. As of now, there is no proper treatment for this condition as removal of the buildup does stop from new growth of the connective tissues.

6 - Von HippelLindau

As weird as the name might sound, Von Hippel-Lindau is a very rare and serious hereditary condition that causes unprecedented tumour formations in the various organs in the body. Majority of the tumourous growths that are witnessed in the affected individuals are either benign tumours or the ones that have blood vessel supply surrounding it. These tumors are also termed as hemangioblastomas and can grow anywhere in the body, enhancing the risks associated with the normal body functions. It often does affect the brain, spinal cord, and even the retina. loss, and constant fatigue as well. Doctor’s often do even regard this as something that’s affecting the individuals psychologically. There are no treatments or drugs available for this condition at the moment.

8 - Microcephaly

7 - Morgellons disease

When it comes to the rarest of rare diseases, the Morgellons disease is considered one of them. The condition is a very misinterpreted one that even doctors are finding hard to describe. Many doctors believe this to be a chronic infectious disease wherein the affected individual constantly feels the of itching, biting, irritation and a very uncommon crawling sensation on their body. Many people also showcase signs of lesions, memory

Detected at birth, Microcephaly is a very rare condition characterized by the smaller circumference of the head of the baby than what’s normal. The condition affects the growth of the baby and is believed to be very common in individuals who might have exposure to hazardous chemicals and radiation. The condition can even occur because of the premature births. Usually, the children affected with Microcephaly tend to also showcase symptoms of Down Syndrome. Majority of the individuals affected with this condition showcase signs of dwarfism, balance and posture related issues, speech problems and even hyperactivity in some of the kids.

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DID YOU KNOW?

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REPLACE THE SATURATED FATS IN THE MEAL WITH UNSATURATED FATS

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