Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is degenerative and progresses over time. Because it affects the brain, it causes interference with mobility. It also affects other neurological functions including the brain’s ability to make dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical transmitter responsible for sending messages from the brain across the nervous system. These messages are for motor function and mental activity. This disease often takes effect in elderly people but can progress from the middle ages 50years and up. But, it’s not impossible for younger folks to also develop the disease. Actor Michael J Fox was first diagnosed at age 29.
How to recognise Parkinson’s diseases symptoms
This disease affects the nervous system. Symptoms aren’t always detectable through CAT (Computerised Axial Tomography) or CT (Computerised Tomography) scans. Here are some of the disease’s symptoms:
Tremors
Some patients experience tremors in their limbs. Tremors are a (shaking or quivering) an effect that occurs in the limbs (hands, feet, legs, arms, head torso) and may continue to tremor even when “idle”. This is also referred to as a “resting tremor”.
Movement is slower
Mobility becomes difficult with Parkinson’s disease. Simple tasks like walking or getting in or out of a chair can be very slow and difficult.
Stiff muscles
Many patients with this disease experience limited motion due to stiff muscles. Stiff muscles are a common symptom tied to Parkinson’s disease.
Mental changes
Patients can become depressed and show a lack of interest in activities that they enjoyed before. They can also experience anxiety and sadness. Other mental changes may include paranoia or hallucinations.
More physical changes
Parkinson’s disease progression can lead to more physical changes. Some include difficulty passing stool, pain, drooling, vocal tremors, double vision, and sleep problems.
Parkinson’s disease cause – why does it happen?
Environmental influences
Some research suggests that certain toxins in the environment can cause neurological changes that result in PD.
Brain cell loss
The loss of brain cells can happen over time or a health-related experience such as a stroke. A stroke cuts off oxygen to the brain and this can cause brain cells to die even if it’s just a few seconds. The loss of brain cells can cause Parkinson’s disease.
Is Parkinson’s disease hereditary?
It’s a rare case that Parkinson’s disease is passed down from parent to child or hereditary. But, sometimes, it is possible.
Treatment options
After the diagnosis, the specialist will work with their patient to help with a treatment program. There is some stem cell research underway that hopes for a breakthrough in treatment for Parkinson’s disease.
Treatment includes but is not limited to:
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- Medication to increase dopamine levels in the brain
- Medicine that interacts with the chemical production and reaction in the brain
- Treatment for non-motor symptoms
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