Non Communicable Diseases List: Symptoms and Treatment 

What is Non communicable Disease?

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are medical conditions or diseases that are not caused by infectious agents and cannot be transmitted from person to person. Hence, these diseases typically develop over time and are often influenced by factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. So, examples of non communicable diseases on our list include cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and mental health disorders.

What Are The 10 Non communicable Disease?

Here are 10 common non-communicable diseases on our list includes:

1. Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD)

This category includes conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, such as coronary artery disease, stroke, and heart failure.

Symptoms of Cardiovascular Diseases?

1. Chest pain or discomfort (angina)
2. Shortness of breath
3. Fatigue
4. Dizziness or lightheadedness
5. Palpitations (irregular heartbeat)
6. Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen
7. Fainting or near-fainting episodes

Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases?

Treatment for cardiovascular diseases depends on the specific condition and its severity. However, common treatment approaches include:

1. Lifestyle changes: Adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and stress management can help manage cardiovascular diseases.

2. Medications: Various medications are used to treat different cardiovascular conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, blood thinners, and medications to manage symptoms like chest pain and heart failure.

3. Procedures: In some cases, procedures such as angioplasty, stent placement, bypass surgery, or heart valve repair or replacement may be necessary to improve blood flow or repair damaged heart tissue.

4. Cardiac rehabilitation: This involves supervised exercise, education, and counselling to help individuals recover from heart attacks, heart surgeries, or other cardiovascular events and improve their overall heart health.

5. Device therapy: Devices like pacemakers, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), or cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices may be implanted to help regulate heart rhythm or improve heart function.

2. Cancer

Cancer is another common non communicable disease on our list. So, it refers to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body, which can form tumors and invade nearby tissues. Also, there are many different types of cancer, each with its characteristics and treatments.

Symptoms of Cancer?

Cancer symptoms can vary widely depending on the type and location of the cancer. However, here’s a general list of common symptoms:

1. Persistent cough or hoarseness
2. Changes in bowel or bladder habits
3. Unexplained weight loss
4. Fatigue
5. Persistent pain
6. Changes in the appearance of a mole or a new skin growth
7. Difficulty swallowing
8. Persistent indigestion or discomfort after eating
9. Changes in the size, shape, or texture of the breast
10. Unusual bleeding or discharge
11. Lumps or swelling in the neck, underarm, or other areas

Treatment of Cancer?

The cancer treatment depends on several factors. So, it depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the individual’s overall health and preferences. Thus, common treatment options include:

1. Surgery: Surgical removal of the cancerous tumor is often the first-line treatment for solid tumors. So, it may be used alone or in combination with other treatments.

2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. So, it can be administered orally, intravenously, or directly into the affected area.

3. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. Thus, it can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with surgery or chemotherapy.

4. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy works by stimulating the body’s immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. Thus, it can be effective for certain types of cancer, particularly those that are advanced or have spread to other parts of the body.

5. Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy is used to treat hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer. Furthermore, it works by blocking the body’s production of certain hormones or by interfering with hormone receptors in cancer cells.

6. Stem cell transplant: Stem cell transplant, also known as bone marrow transplant, may be used to treat certain types of cancer, particularly blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma. So, it involves replacing diseased bone marrow with healthy stem cells.

3. Chronic Respiratory Diseases

These are long-term conditions that affect the lungs and airways. Thus, they include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and pulmonary fibrosis.

Symptoms of Chronic Respiratory Diseases?

Chronic respiratory diseases can present with various symptoms, which may include:

1. Persistent cough
2. Shortness of breath (dyspnea), especially during physical activity
3. Wheezing or noisy breathing
4. Chest tightness or discomfort
5. Frequent respiratory infections
6. Chronic mucus production (sputum)
7. Fatigue
8. Bluish tint to the lips or fingernails (cyanosis) in severe cases

Treatment of Chronic Respiratory Diseases?

The treatment for chronic respiratory diseases aims to manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and slow disease progression. Treatment approaches may include:

1. Medications:

• Bronchodilators: These drugs help relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe. So, they are commonly used in conditions like asthma and COPD.
•  Inhaled corticosteroids: These medications reduce inflammation in the airways and are often used to manage asthma and COPD.
• Antibiotics: If a respiratory infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection.
•  Mucolytics: These drugs help loosen and thin mucus, making it easier to clear from the airways.
• Immunomodulators: In conditions like cystic fibrosis, medications may be used to help improve lung function and reduce inflammation.

2. Oxygen therapy: Supplemental oxygen may be prescribed for individuals with severe respiratory disease to improve oxygen levels in the blood and alleviate symptoms like shortness of breath.

3. Pulmonary rehabilitation: This comprehensive program includes exercise training, education, and support to help individuals with chronic respiratory diseases improve their lung function, endurance, and overall quality of life.

4. Lifestyle modifications: Quitting smoking, avoiding exposure to respiratory irritants like air pollution and allergens, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying physically active can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression.

5. Vaccinations: Annual flu vaccines and pneumococcal vaccines are recommended for individuals with chronic respiratory diseases to reduce the risk of respiratory infections.

6. Surgical interventions: In some cases, surgical procedures such as lung volume reduction surgery or lung transplantation may be considered for individuals with advanced respiratory disease who have not responded to other treatments.

4. Diabetes

Diabetes is another common non communicable disease on our list. So, it is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period. There are several types of diabetes, including:

• Type 1 diabetes,
• Type 2 diabetes,
• Gestational diabetes.

Symptoms of Diabetes

1. Frequent urination (polyuria)
2. Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
3. Increased hunger (polyphagia)
4. Unexplained weight loss
5. Fatigue
6. Blurred vision
7. Slow healing of wounds
8. Frequent infections
9. Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
10. Recurrent yeast infections (in women)

Treatment of Diabetes?

The treatment for diabetes aims to manage blood sugar levels and prevent complications associated with the condition. So, treatment approaches may include:

1. Lifestyle modifications:

• Taking Healthy diet
• Engaging in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling, helps improve insulin sensitivity and can lower blood sugar levels.
• Maintaining a healthy weight through diet.

2. Medications: For type 1 diabetes and some cases of type 2 diabetes, insulin therapy is necessary to replace or supplement the body’s insulin production.

3. Blood sugar monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels using a glucometer or continuous glucose monitoring system helps individuals with diabetes track their progress and make adjustments to their treatment plan as needed.

4. Insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM): These devices can help individuals with diabetes manage their insulin levels more effectively, especially for type 1 diabetes.

5. Education and support: Diabetes education programs provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to manage their condition effectively, including meal planning, medication management, blood sugar monitoring, and coping with diabetes-related stress.

5. Mental Health Disorders

This is another common non communicable diseases on our list. So, this category includes a wide range of conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior, such as depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

Symptoms of Mental Health Disorders?

1. Persistent sadness or low mood
2. Excessive worry or anxiety
3. Changes in sleep patterns
4. Changes in appetite or weight
5. Fatigue or low energy
6. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
7. Irritability or agitation
8. Social withdrawal
9. Physical symptoms without apparent cause
10. Changes in behavior or personality
11. Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
12. Substance abuse

Treatment of Mental Health Disorders?

Treatment for mental health disorders depends on the specific disorder, its severity, and the individual’s unique needs. However, common treatment approaches may include:

1. Psychotherapy (talk therapy): Various forms of psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and psychodynamic therapy, can help individuals address underlying issues, learn coping skills, and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.

2. Medications: Psychiatric medications, including antidepressants, antianxiety medications, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotic medications. So, they may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of certain mental health disorders. Note, medication management should be overseen by a qualified healthcare professional.

3. Lifestyle modifications: Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, avoiding alcohol and drug use, and practicing stress management techniques can support overall mental health and complement other treatment approaches.

4. Support groups: Participating in support groups or peer-led organizations can provide individuals with a sense of community, understanding, and validation, as well as opportunities to share experiences and coping strategies with others who may be facing similar challenges.

5. Family therapy: Involving family members or loved ones in therapy sessions can help improve communication, address relationship issues, and create a supportive environment for recovery.

6. Musculoskeletal Conditions

Musculoskeletal disorders is also on non communicable diseases list. So, it affect the muscles, bones, joints, and connective tissues of the body. So, examples include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and back pain.

Symptoms of Musculoskeletal Conditions?

1. Pain
2. Stiffness
3. Swelling
4. Limited range of motion
5. Weakness
6. Instability
7. Deformities
8. Cracking or popping sensations
9. Numbness or tingling
10. Fatigue
11. Difficulty sleeping
12. Redness or warmth

Treatment of Musculoskeletal Conditions?

Treatment for musculoskeletal conditions aims to alleviate symptoms, improve function, and enhance quality of life. Depending on the specific condition and its severity, treatment options may include:

1. Medications:

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications. Thus, this includes, acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or opioids, may help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Muscle relaxants: These medications can help relieve muscle spasms and improve mobility in conditions. Thus, such as muscle strains or back pain.
• Topical treatments: Creams, gels, or patches containing pain-relieving or anti-inflammatory medications can be applied directly to the affected area for localized relief.

2. Physical therapy: Physical therapists can design individualized exercise programs to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Thus, techniques such as manual therapy, massage, and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation to alleviate pain and improve function.

3. Occupational therapy: Occupational therapists can help individuals with musculoskeletal conditions learn adaptive techniques and modify activities of daily living to minimize pain and maximize independence.

4. Braces or splints: Supportive devices, such as braces, splints, or orthotics, can help stabilize joints, relieve pressure, and improve alignment, particularly in conditions like osteoarthritis or tendonitis.

5. Injections: Corticosteroid injections or joint injections of medications like hyaluronic acid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may be recommended to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in specific joints or soft tissues.

6. Surgery: In some cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to repair damaged tissues, correct deformities, or relieve pressure on nerves or blood vessels. So, common surgical procedures for musculoskeletal conditions include joint replacement, arthroscopy, spinal fusion, or tendon repair.

7. Complementary therapies: Techniques such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage therapy, and mind-body practices like yoga or tai chi. Thus, may provide additional relief from musculoskeletal symptoms and improve overall well-being.

7. Neurological Disorders

These are diseases of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Examples include Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy.

Symptoms of Neurological Disorders?

1. Headaches
2. Seizures
3. Muscle Weakness or Paralysis
4. Numbness or Tingling
5. Difficulty Speaking or Swallowing
6. Memory Loss or Cognitive Impairment
7. Coordination Problems
8. Vision Problems
9. Changes in Sensation or Perception
10. Mood Changes or Behavioral Changes

Treatment of Neurological Disorders?

1. Comprehensive treatment approaches are used, including a combination of medications, cognitive-behavioral therapy, physical/occupational therapy, and neuromodulation techniques like deep brain stimulation.

2. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective for primarily behavioral neurological issues, helping patients develop coping strategies and improve functioning.

3. Early recognition of neurological disorders and a collaborative approach between the patient, family, and healthcare providers is crucial for effective treatment.

8. Digestive Diseases

Digestive disorders affect the gastrointestinal tract and organs involved in digestion, such as the stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas. Examples include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver cirrhosis.

Symptoms of Digestive Diseases?

1. Headaches
2. Seizures
3. Muscle weakness or paralysis
4. Tremors or involuntary movements
5. Sensory changes (tingling, numbness, pain)
6. Changes in coordination or balance
7. Speech or language difficulties
8. Cognitive changes (memory, attention, reasoning)
9. Vision problems
10. Behavioral or mood changes
11. Memory loss or confusion

Treatment of Digestive Diseases?

Treatment for digestive diseases depends on the specific condition and its underlying cause. However, common treatment approaches may include:

1. Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription medications like Antacids, Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), Antibiotics, Antidiarrheal medications, Immunosuppressants and Pain relievers.

2. Lifestyle modifications: Avoiding trigger foods, such as spicy food that can cause stomach acid, practicing relaxation techniques and regular physical exercise that can help improve digestion. Hence, reduce symptoms of constipation, and promote overall gastrointestinal health.

3. Surgery: In some cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to treat digestive diseases that do not respond to conservative treatments or to correct anatomical abnormalities. Examples include surgery to remove diseased portions of the intestines in Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, or surgery to repair hernias or remove gallstones.

4. Endoscopic procedures: Minimally invasive procedures, such as endoscopy or colonoscopy, may be used to diagnose and treat certain digestive conditions. Such as, removing polyps, widening narrowed passages, or stopping bleeding.

5. Nutritional support: Nutritional supplements, such as vitamins, minerals, or probiotics. So, they may be recommended to support digestive health and address nutrient deficiencies in individuals with malabsorption syndromes or chronic digestive diseases.

9. Chronic Kidney Diseases

These are conditions that affect the kidneys’ ability to function properly over time. Thus, leading to a gradual loss of kidney function. So, chronic kidney disease (CKD) can eventually progress to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or transplantation.

Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Diseases?

1. Fatigue
2. Swelling (edema)
3. Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
4. Persistent itching (pruritus)
5. Foamy urine (proteinuria)
6. Changes in urination
7. Difficulty sleeping
8. Loss of appetite
9. Muscle cramps
10. Nausea and vomiting
11. High blood pressure (hypertension)
12. Changes in skin color (pale or yellowing)

Treatment of Chronic Kidney Diseases?

Treatment for chronic kidney disease (CKD) aims to slow the progression of kidney damage, manage symptoms, and prevent complications. So, common treatment approaches may include:

1. Blood pressure control: Maintaining blood pressure within target ranges is crucial for slowing the progression of kidney damage. Thus, this may involve lifestyle modifications (e.g., healthy diet, regular exercise, limiting sodium intake) and medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers) to lower blood pressure.

2. Blood sugar control: If CKD is associated with diabetes, tight control of blood sugar levels is essential to prevent further kidney damage. Thus, this may include lifestyle changes (e.g., healthy diet, regular exercise, medication adherence) and medications (e.g., insulin, oral hypoglycemic agents) as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

3. Proteinuria management: Protein in the urine (proteinuria) is a marker of kidney damage. So, medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) may be prescribed to reduce proteinuria and slow the progression of CKD.

4. Fluid and electrolyte balance: Monitoring fluid intake and electrolyte levels (e.g., potassium, phosphorus) is important in CKD management. So, in advanced stages of CKD, dietary restrictions and medications may be necessary to maintain proper fluid and electrolyte balance.

5. Dietary changes: Following a kidney-friendly diet low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium and moderate in protein intake can help manage CKD and prevent complications. Thus, a registered dietitian can provide personalized dietary recommendations based on individual needs.

6. Dialysis or kidney transplant: In advanced stages of CKD, when kidney function declines to the point where the kidneys can no longer adequately perform their functions, dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) or kidney transplant may be necessary to sustain life.

10. Metabolic Syndrome

Finally on our non communicable diseases list is Metabolic syndrome. So, is a cluster of conditions that occur together, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Thus, it includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, abnormal cholesterol levels, and insulin resistance.

Symptoms of Metabolic Syndrome?

1. Abdominal obesity
2. High blood pressure (hypertension)
3. High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)
4. High triglycerides
5. Low HDL cholesterol
6. Increased waist circumference
7. Insulin resistance
8. Inflammation
9. Increased blood clotting
10. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
11. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) – in women

Treatment of Metabolic Syndrome?

Treatment for metabolic syndrome focuses on addressing its individual components and reducing the overall risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and other related health problems. Thus, common treatment approaches may include:

1. Lifestyle modifications: Adopting a balanced diet, engaging in moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke. In addition, moderating alcohol intake to reduce the risk of liver damage, and high blood pressure.

2. Medications:

• Blood pressure medications: Medications to lower blood pressure, such as ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), diuretics, or calcium channel blockers. So, may be prescribed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
• Lipid-lowering medications: Statins or other lipid-lowering medications may be prescribed to lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Antidiabetic medications: Medications such as metformin or insulin sensitizers may be prescribed to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels in individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.
• Aspirin therapy: Low-dose aspirin may be recommended for some individuals with metabolic syndrome to reduce the risk of blood clots and cardiovascular events. Note, under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

3. Regular monitoring and follow-up: Monitoring blood pressure, blood sugar levels, lipid profiles, and other metabolic parameters regularly to track progress and adjust treatment plans as needed. Additionally, screenings for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and other related health conditions.

4. Education and support: Providing education and support to help individuals understand their condition. Also, adhere to treatment recommendations, and make sustainable lifestyle changes.

5. Management of associated conditions: Treating underlying conditions such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or sleep apnea, which may contribute to metabolic syndrome and increase the risk of complications.

Prevention of Non-Communicable Disease

The prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) involves various strategies such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing weight, avoiding tobacco and alcohol use, and ensuring adequate sleep. These lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in preventing and managing NCDs like cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, cancers, respiratory diseases, and mental illnesses. Additionally, genetic counselling and gene therapy are essential for detecting and preventing genetic disorders associated with NCDs. The management of NCDs includes screening, detection, treatment, and palliative care, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach to address these chronic conditions.

Conclusion

FAQs

What are the 4 classifications of disease?

Diseases can be classified in various ways based on different criteria. One common classification system categorizes diseases into four main types:

1. Infectious diseases: These are caused by pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, or prions. Examples include influenza, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, malaria, and COVID-19. So, infectious diseases can be spread from person to person through direct or indirect contact, contaminated food or water, insect vectors, or airborne transmission.

2. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs): Also known as chronic diseases, these conditions are not caused by infectious agents and typically develop over time due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Examples include cardiovascular diseases (e.g., heart disease, stroke), cancer, chronic respiratory diseases (e.g., COPD, asthma), diabetes, and autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus).

3. Genetic diseases: These are caused by mutations or abnormalities in an individual’s genetic material (DNA). So, genetic diseases can be inherited from one or both parents or can occur spontaneously due to new mutations. Examples include cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, Huntington’s disease, and hemophilia.

4. Degenerative diseases: These are characterized by progressive deterioration or loss of function in tissues or organs over time. Additionally, degenerative diseases may be related to aging or may result from genetic, environmental, or lifestyle factors. Examples include Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, osteoarthritis, and macular degeneration.

Is depression a non-communicable disease?

Yes, depression is classified as a non-communicable disease (NCD). Furthermore, non-communicable diseases, also known as chronic diseases, are medical conditions that are not caused by infectious agents and typically develop over time due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities. So, it affects mood, thoughts, and behaviors and can interfere with daily functioning and quality of life. While depression can be triggered by various factors, including life events, stress, genetics, and brain chemistry, it is not spread from person to person like infectious diseases.

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