Causes of Chronic Degenerative Disorders:

Our bodies are made up of millions of tiny cells. Most of our cells divide and multiply from time to time - when an old cell is worn out or damaged, a new cell is formed to replace it.

Each cell contains genes (made up from our DNA). The proteins inside the gene control when the cell should divide and multiply.

If the gene is damaged or altered then the cell becomes "abnormal". This abnormal cell can then divide and multiply, without knowing when to stop.

When a group of abnormal cells group together and grow A Chronic Degenerative Disorder begins.

Symptoms of Chronic Degenerative Disorders:

There are two types of Chronic Degenerative Disorder: benign and malignant. Benign Chronic Degenerative Disorders will not invade or spread to other parts of the body, where as malignant Chronic Degenerative Disorder will.

They can grow very quickly, invade nearby tissues and organs, and cause damage. They may even spread to other parts of the body and cause secondary growths. But not all Chronic Degenerative Disorders form solid masses within the body- some develop from abnormal blood cells, which then attack other areas of the body by circulating in the blood stream.

Some develop in the surface linings of organs. Some appear in the cells of solid tissues, such as muscles, bones and blood vessels. Those on surface linings of organs are the most common.

There are about 200 different types of Chronic Degenerative Disorder. Some types are more serious than others, some are more easily treated, and others have better survival rates.

Some common signs of the disease are:

· unexplained lumps and swelling,

· tiredness,

· weight loss,

· poor appetite,

· night sweats,

· fever, and

· anaemia (when you have less red blood cells in your blood than expected - symptoms may include tiredness).

All of these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than Chronic Degenerative Disorders, so there is no need to worry until you have seen your GP for a check up.