Information about Parkinson’s Disease

We Have to Know about the Parkinson’s Disease

• Parkinson’s disease is a disorder that affects nerve cells in the part of the brain controlling muscle movement.
• These symptoms usually develop after age 60, although some people affected by Parkinson’s disease are younger than age 50.
• Parkinson’s disease is progressive, meaning the signs and symptoms become worse over time.
• Unlike other serious neurological diseases, Parkinson’s disease is treatable.

Causes of Parkinson’s Disease

• Genetic Factors: people with a first-degree relative with Parkinson’s disease, such as a parent, child or sibling, are more likely to develop the disease than are people without a family connection.
• Environmental Factors: People with unusual exposure to herbicides and pesticides are more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease than are people who don’t have this exposure.
• Medications: A number of drugs (for e.g. Drugs to cure certain psychiatric disorders, to treat nausea, or epilepsy drugs) taken for long periods of time or in excessive dosages can cause symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Signs and Symptoms of  Parkinson’s Disease

• Tremors in hand (or even one finger) or legs. These signs may occur on one or both sides of body and may be more noticeable when one is under stress
• Rigid muscles. Muscle stiffness (rigidity) often occurs in limbs and neck.
• Loss of automatic movements. Unconscious acts like blinking, smiling and swinging one’s arms while walking tend to be diminished and even lost. Some people may develop a fixed staring expression and unblinking eyes.
• Impaired speech. Trouble in speech and voices often become monotonous and very soft.
• Difficulty swallowing
• Ability to think, reason and remember is affected. Parkinson’s disease also leads to slowed thought processes and problems with concentration.

Medical advice for Parkinson’s Disease

• See a doctor if you have any of the above mentioned symptoms

Risk Factors of Parkinson’s Disease

• Age
• Men are more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease than women are.
• Exposure to pesticides and herbicides.
• Reduced estrogen levels. Menopausal women and those who have had hysterectomies may be at higher risk.

Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease    

• Medications, physical therapy, a healthy diet and exercise.

Self Care for Parkinson’s Disease      

• If you’ve received a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease certain lifestyle changes may help make living with Parkinson’s disease easier.
• Eat a nutritionally balanced diet that contains plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Exercise regularly

Investigations  for Parkinson’s Disease

• Neurological Examinations