Disability can be due to various reasons. Some people gain it because of genes, while others acquire it because of a particular disease. Various diseases can lead to disability; some have a higher chance than others. Here are some of the most common diseases in the United States that can lead to disability.
Arthritis
Nerves in your body are protected by a thin layer of tissue called myelin. When you have arthritis, this layer gets more delicate, making it harder for your nerves to send signals. This can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling in your extremities. Arthritis can also make it difficult to move your joints.
Arthritis is relatively common among seniors. It’s estimated that 49% of seniors aged 65 years and older have arthritis. It’s also the common reason most of them have a motor disability.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a common disease in the United States. It’s estimated that around 37 million Americans have diabetes, and approximately 7 million don’t know it.
There are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. Your cells attack your pancreas, which produces insulin, responsible for controlling blood sugar levels. Without insulin, your blood sugar levels will become too high.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes. It’s caused by a combination of genetics and lifestyle factors. When you have type 2 diabetes, your body doesn’t use insulin properly. This can lead to high blood sugar levels and other health problems.
Diabetes can cause a variety of disabilities, one of them being blindness, and it’s the leading cause of blindness in adults aged 20-74. It’s also a common cause of kidney failure and lower limb amputations.
Heart disease
Heart disease is a general term for various conditions affecting your heart. Some of the most common types of heart disease are coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, and heart attacks.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Each year, around 610,000 Americans die from heart disease. That’s one in every four deaths.
Heart disease can lead to disability in many ways. One way is through a stroke. A stroke happens when blood flow to your brain is cut off, which can occur if you have a heart attack. Often people with stroke require intensive palliative care because it has affected their motor functions. This kind of care covers many services, from physical to occupational therapy.
Cancer
Cancer is a disease caused by the abnormal growth of cells. Many different types of cancer can affect any part of your body. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. Each year, around 595,000 Americans die from cancer.
Cancer can lead to disability in a few ways, and one way is through treating its side effects. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can cause many side effects, like fatigue and nausea. These side effects can make it difficult to do everyday activities. Another way cancer can lead to disability is if it spreads to your bones. This can make them weak, which can lead to fractures.
Multiple sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is a disease that attacks your nervous system. It’s an autoimmune disease, which means your body’s immune system attacks healthy cells by mistake.
Multiple sclerosis can lead to many different disabilities. One common disability is paralysis, when you can’t move one or more limbs. This happens because the disease damages the nerves that control your muscles. Multiple sclerosis can also lead to blindness and problems with your memory and thinking.
These are five of the most common diseases in the United States that can lead to disability. There are some simple ways to avoid them. Here are some of those ways.
Eat Healthily
A healthy diet is essential for many reasons. It can help you maintain a healthy weight, have more energy, and avoid diseases.
Some foods that are good for your heart are fish, nuts, seeds, and fruits and vegetables. These foods contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation.
Exercise Regularly
Exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, and improving overall health.
People who exercise regularly are at a lower risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. They’re also less likely to develop cancer.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable death in the United States. Each year, around 480,000 Americans die from smoking-related illnesses.
Smoking increases your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and cancer. It also increases your risk of developing other diseases, like COPD and emphysema.
Avoid Alcohol Abuse
Drinking too much alcohol can lead to many health problems. It can damage your liver and increase your risk of cancer. So if you don’t want cancer and be disabled for the rest of your life, avoid drinking too much alcohol.
Disability is something people want to avoid whenever they can. By knowing about these five diseases, you can take steps to avoid them. And if you get one of these diseases, you’ll know what to expect and how to get the help you need.
