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Understanding Parkinson’s Disease and How to Manage it with care
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease and How to Manage it with care
When a loved one begins to show unusual tremors or struggles with movement, it can be concerning. You may have heard of Parkinson’s disease but might not fully understand what it is or how it affects a person’s daily life. Questions like what causes Parkinson’s, how it progresses, and how it can be managed often follow.
You are not alone in seeking answers. Each year, millions of individuals worldwide are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and many families navigate the challenges it brings. On World Parkinson’s Day, which is observed on 11th April, let’s take the opportunity to understand this condition with clarity, compassion, and hope.
- What is Parkinson’s Disease?
- Common Signs of Parkinson’s Disease
- What Causes Parkinson’s Disease?
- Parkinson’s Disease Treatment: What Can Be Done?
- On Parkinson’s Day– Let’s Spread Awareness and Kindness
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a brain disease. It creates mainly movement problems. There are times when things like walking, writing, speaking, or even holding a spoon can become torturous. In layman’s terms, a simple thing would be that Parkinson’s occurs when the brain is unable to make a chemical called dopamine in adequate amounts. This chemical assists in controlling the movement of your body. As it decreases, the body starts moving irregularly, not maintaining the normal way.
It’s a slow-moving condition. This means the symptoms don’t show up all at once. They start small and gradually get worse.
Common Signs of Parkinson’s Disease
Not everyone with Parkinson’s will have the same symptoms. Meaning, that Parkinson’s symptoms vary from person to person. But here are a few common signs:
- Tremors: Shaking in the hands, fingers, or chin. Especially when resting.
- Stiffness: Muscles become tight, and movements feel rigid or painful.
- Slow movements: Everything from walking to talking becomes slower.
- Balance problems: A person may feel unsteady or fall easily.
- Changes in writing: Handwriting may become small and sloppy.
- Facial expressions: The face may look less expressive, almost like wearing a mask.
Other symptoms can include tiredness, sleep problems, mood changes like depression, or trouble with memory and thinking clearly.
What Causes Parkinson’s Disease?
The exact Parkinson’s disease is still not fully known. But some things may play a role:
- Aging: Most people who get Parkinson’s disease are over 60.
- Genes: Sometimes, it runs in families.
- Environment: Long-term exposure to certain chemicals or toxins might increase the risk.
- Brain changes: Some researchers believe that tiny changes in the brain cells over time lead to this disease.
It’s important to remember, it’s not your fault if you or someone you love is diagnosed with Parkinson’s. No one can predict who will get it, and it can happen even to people who live healthy lives.
Parkinson’s Disease Treatment: What Can Be Done?
There’s no cure for Parkinson’s yet, but Parkinson’s disease treatment has come a long way. The good news is that there are many ways to manage the symptoms and live a full life.
Here’s how:
1. Medicine
Medicines are usually the first line of treatment. They help increase dopamine in the brain or mimic its action.
- Some medicines help with tremors.
- Others help improve movement and reduce stiffness.
- These are usually taken several times a day.
But like all medicines, Parkinson’s disease treatment may have side effects. It’s important to work closely with a doctor who understands Parkinson’s well.
2. Physical Therapy
Staying active is one of the best Parkinson’s disease treatments. A physiotherapist can guide exercises to:
- Improve balance
- Loosen stiff muscles
- Keep joints moving
- Help with walking
Even simple activities like walking daily or doing gentle stretches at home can make a big difference.
3. Speech and Occupational Therapy
Parkinson’s can affect speech and everyday tasks like eating or dressing. Therapists can help in small, practical ways:
- Speech therapy helps improve voice and clarity.
- Occupational therapy helps you manage daily life, like using special spoons or clothing aids.
4. Lifestyle and Diet
Food doesn’t cure Parkinson’s, but a healthy diet can help manage symptoms better. Focus on:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Drinking plenty of water
- Foods rich in fiber to avoid constipation (a common problem in Parkinson’s disease)
Also, getting enough rest and reducing stress are just as important as taking medicines.
5. Support from Family and Friends
- Living with Parkinson’s can be emotionally hard. Support from loved ones makes a huge difference. Patience, kindness, and understanding go a long way.
- There are also many support groups. It is both online and offline, where people share experiences, and tips, and simply connect with others going through the same thing.
6. Surgical Options (for Some Cases)
- In advanced cases, when medicines don’t help much, doctors may suggest a surgery called Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). It involves placing a small device in the brain to help control movement.
- Not everyone needs this, and it’s usually for those whose symptoms are severe and can’t be managed otherwise.
Living with Parkinson’s Disease
- A Parkinson’s diagnosis may feel overwhelming at first. It’s natural to feel scared, sad, or even angry. But many people with Parkinson’s continue to lead meaningful, joyful lives.
- With the right care, support, and early treatment, symptoms can be managed well. It’s about learning how to adapt, staying active, and finding new ways to enjoy life.
- Some people even discover new talents, painting, singing, or joining support communities. You don’t have to do it alone.
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