WHAT IS PARKINSON’S DISEASE?

Parkinson’s disease is a type of movement disorder that affects approximately 1 million people in the United States, and 4 million worldwide. It generally affects those over 60 years of age, and is progressive in nature. This disease results from the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells, and causes symptoms that can become debilitating over time. Since there is no specific test available for Parkinson’s disease, a diagnosis is usually made based on a comprehensive neurological exam.

SYMPTOMS:

There are a variety of symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease, and most patients do not develop all of them. The symptoms vary greatly, depending on the individual, and the stage of the disease. The most common symptoms include:

Tremor, most commonly starting on one side of the body
Rigidity, and aching muscles
Difficulty walking
Loss of balance
Slow and limited movement
Weakness of facial muscles


HOW IS PARKINSON’S DISEASE TREATED?

Parkinson’s disease does not have a cure; however, many of the symptoms can be treated. During the early stages of the disease, no treatment may be required, but as it progresses the symptoms can interfere with a patient’s daily activities. Medication is usually the first step, and a drug called lepodova, which replaces dopamine that the body loses with this disease, is most commonly prescribed. Physical and speech therapies can also help a patient overcome many of the symptoms associated with advanced Parkinson’s disease. In more severe cases, surgical treatments such as deep-brain stimulation, ablation or pallidotomy may be other options.

Parkinson's Disease | Epilepsy | Bios