What does ARD mean in HEALTHCARE

Adult Refsum Disease is caused by the accumulation of toxic substances in body cells, organs, and tissues called phytanic acid.

While there is no cure for ARD, there are treatments available to help manage its symptoms and reduce the impact of the disease on a patient's life. Treatments may include dietary changes, physical therapy, medications, assistive devices, and lifestyle adjustments.

The symptoms of ARD vary from person to person depending on how much phytanic acid has accumulated in their body. Commonly observed symptoms include eye problems like sensitive eyes or vision loss; difficulty walking; abnormal reflexes; hearing loss; respiratory issues like shortness of breath or difficulty breathing; weakness in arms or legs; fatigue; numbness or tingling sensations in limbs; slowed heart rate; learning disabilities or intellectual disabilities; low blood sugar levels etc.

Anyone at any age can develop Adult Refsum disease as it's a genetic disorder but it mainly affects adults who have inherited a faulty gene responsible for producing an enzyme that breaks down phytanic acid. Individuals who have family members with ARD are more likely to develop this condition than those without.

It is estimated that only 1 out of every 100 000 people may have this disorder however due to its rarity exact prevalence numbers are not available currently.