Parkinson's Disease Treatment

The nerve cells in the brain produce a chemical called dopamine. The chemical helps to organize the brain’s command for body movement. In Parkinson’s disease there is loss of dopamine as a result it causes movement symptoms. Factors such as genes, environmental triggers may also be the cause of Parkinson’s disease.

The symptoms may vary from person to person. Some of the common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are – • Slow movement • Tremors • Stiffness in limbs • Balance and coordination problem • Cramps in muscles • Muscle twisting • Hunched posture

The doctor takes medical history and family history to check any neurological disorders. There is no standard blood test or other laboratory test for Parkinson’s disease. Diagnosis is made by studying the sign and symptoms of the patient.

Parkinson’s disease causes Parkinson’s dementia. There is decline in reasoning, thinking and the person is not able to solve problems.

Parkinson’s disease is not curable. However, the medicines and therapies may help to ease the symptoms and avoid complications.

Genes play a role in occurrence of Parkinson’s disease. The person whose parents or siblings are with Parkinson’s disease, are more likely to develop the disease.

Parkinson’s disease is not a fatal disease. The complications linked to the disease may reduce the life expectancy by 1-2 years.

Aerobics, strengthening exercise, balance and stretching exercises are good for person with Parkinson’s disease.

Whole foods such as beans and legumes, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, green leafy vegetables and drinking lot of water is recommended.

Both the diseases affect nerves. In multi sclerosis the immune system attacks the cells that cover nerves. Parkinson’s disease is a result of loss of dopamine in the brain.

Carbidopa-levodopa is the first line of treatment for Parkinson’s disease.

Eating a healthy balanced diet can manage symptoms (except movement) of Parkinson’s disease. High fiber foods must be consumed.

There is no specific test for Parkinson’s disease. Some of the early signs that you may identify are – tremor, loss of smell, trouble sleeping, small handwriting, dizziness etc.

You must consult a neurologist in treating Parkinson’s disease. A neurologist, physiotherapist and speech therapist help you manage Parkinson’s disease.