Question

Does mad cow disease affect the respiratory function

Answer 1

Mad cow disease, known scientifically as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), primarily affects the brain and nervous system of cattle and is caused by prions—misfolded proteins that lead to neurodegenerative changes. In humans, a variant form of the disease known as variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD) can occur after consuming infected beef products.

While mad cow disease and vCJD primarily impact neurological function, leading to symptoms such as cognitive decline, memory loss, and coordination problems, they do not directly affect respiratory function. However, as the disease progresses and neurological functions deteriorate, patients may experience complications that could indirectly affect breathing or respiratory function, such as loss of muscle control or difficulty swallowing.

In summary, while mad cow disease itself does not target the respiratory system, the overall decline in a person's health due to the disease can lead to respiratory issues as secondary complications.