Parkinson's Disease
- Bryce Q
- Dec 28, 2022
- 2 min read
What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s is a progressive brain disorder that leads to shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with walking, balance, and coordination. In Parkinson’s disease, neurons in your brain gradually break down and die. Since neurons produce a chemical called dopamine, Parkinson’s is characterized by low dopamine levels, causing many of the symptoms associated with Parkinson’s.
How common is Parkinson’s disease?
It’s been thought that about 1 in every 500 people will develop it in their lifetime.
Who is most at risk for Parkinson’s disease?
Most people who develop Parkinson’s are over 50, so age is definitely a significant factor. Men are more likely to obtain Parkinson’s disease than women.
Several other factors play in role in determining your chance of getting Parkinson’s, including hereditary genes and exposure to toxins.
What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease?
Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are different for everyone. Usually, the symptoms of Parkinson’s are more severe on one side of the body, even if they affect both sides. The most common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are:
Tremors (usually starts in your limbs, then moves to your fingers)
Slowed movement (bradykinesia)
Rigid muscles
Impaired posture and balance
Loss of automatic movements, including blinking, smiling and moving your arms when walking
Speech changes (your voice can become more monotonous, quick, soft, slurred, and hesitant)
Writing changes
What additional problems arise from Parkinson’s disease?
Because the brain is mentally impaired, the whole body is thoroughly affected by Parkinson’s. Some additional problems that may arise include:
Thinking difficulties, which can turn into dementia
Depression and emotional changes, such as fear, anxiety, or loss of motivation
Swallowing problems and drooling
Chewing and eating problems
Sleep problems and sleep disorders, including insomnia and rapid eye movement
Bladder problems
Constipation
Blood pressure changes
Smell dysfunction
Fatigue
Pain throughout the body
Sexual dysfunction
How is Parkinson’s disease diagnosed?
In most cases, doctors will determine whether a person has Parkinson’s by noting a person’s symptoms. However, some supplemental tests may be used to supplement a doctor’s diagnosis, including:
Dopamine transporter scan (DaTscan)
Blood tests - to rule out other diseases/conditions
Imaging tests, such as PET and MRI scans - to rule out other neurological conditions
How is Parkinson’s disease treated?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for Parkinson’s. However, many treatments can help control symptoms. Here are the various therapies used for Parkinson’s:
Medications/Procedures:
Carbidopa-levodopa - the most effective medication, is a natural chemical that converts to dopamine in the brain
Dopamine agonists - mimics dopamine effects in your brain
MAO B inhibitors - inhibits an enzyme that breaks down dopamine
Anticholinergics/Amantadine - helps control tremors
Deep brain stimulation - may reduce tremors, reduce rigidity, and improve slowing of movement,
Lifestyle Changes:
Healthy diets - diets high in fiber and fluids can reduce constipation associated with Parkinson’s
Exercise - increases muscle strength, flexibility, balance, reduces depression/anxiety
Avoiding falls by distributing weight evenly on both feet, not carrying things while walking, and not walking backward
Alternative Medicine:
Massage - reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation
Tai chi - improves flexibility, balance, and muscle strength
Yoga - increase flexibility and balance
Meditation - reduces stress and pain, improve well-being
How to prevent Parkinson’s disease?
It isn’t possible to prevent Parkinson’s, but healthy habits can help reduce the risk of getting it. Some of these habits include consuming turmeric and flavonoids, which are both full of antioxidants, and avoiding reheated oils and toxins.
Sources:
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/parkinsons-disease#:~:text=Parkinson's%20disease%20is%20a%20brain,have%20difficulty%20walking%20and%20talking.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/parkinsons-disease/#:~:text=It's%20thought%20around%201%20in,get%20Parkinson's%20disease%20than%20women.
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