The Neurology Department at Desun Hospital specializes in diagnosing and managing disorders of the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. From common concerns like headaches to complex neurological conditions such as epilepsy, strokes, and Parkinson’s disease, our expert team of neurologists and neurosurgeons provide comprehensive care. Equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and neurosurgical facilities, we ensure accurate diagnosis, timely treatment, and faster recovery — all aimed at delivering the highest level of patient satisfaction.

Understanding Parkinson’s Disease: Early Symptoms, Causes, and Living with the Condition

Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that progress slowly and affects movement, often the early symptoms that may go unnoticed. It is important to stay aware about this condition, as early diagnosis and treatment can help control the pace of progress and help people maintain a better lifestyle. We will discuss the early symptoms, possible causes, advanced symptoms, treatment options, and how people with Parkinson’s can lead fulfilling lives with the support of family, friends, and medical care.

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressing problem of the nervous system that mainly affects movement. It happens due to stoppage of dopamine production in certain nerve cells of the brain, dopamine a chemical that helps regulate movement and coordination. While the exact cause of Parkinson’s is not fully understood, it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

What are the Early Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?

The early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are often not so significant and may vary from person to person. Some common early symptoms include:
• Tremors: Light shaking or tremors in the hands, fingers, or limbs, especially when at rest.
• Bradykinesia: Slow movement, resulting in taking longer than usual time to perform regular tasks.
• Muscle stiffness: Stiffness in the limbs or trunk area that may limit movement and cause discomfort.
• Changes in handwriting: handwriting may be small and cluttered
• Loss of smell: A reduced ability to smell certain foods or perfumes.
• Changes in posture: Problem with posture, stooping or hunched and problem with maintaining balance.
• Facial masking: Reduced facial expressions, giving the appearance of a “masked” face.

What are the Possible Causes of Parkinson’s Disease?

Till now it is not possible to pinpoint exact cause of Parkinson’s disease, studies have identified several factors that may be cause of the disease
• Genetics: Certain genetic conditions can cause Parkinson’s; family history may be a reason for Parkinson’s disease.
• Environmental factors: Regular exposure toxins, pesticides, or heavy metals may increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s.
• Age: People over 60 have higher risk of getting Parkinson’s disease.
• Gender and Parkinson’s: Parkinson’s is more common in men.

What are Advanced Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?

Post the initial symptoms the advance symptoms appear:
• Extreme tremors: Sensation of tremors can be felt in other parts of the body.
• Difficulty walking: Problem with starting a movement, walking and movement.
• Changes in Speech: Speech may become extra Soft, unclear, absence or minimal of voice modulation in speech.
• Cognitive decline: Memory problems, confusion, and difficulty concentrating.
• Mood disorders: Depression, anxiety, and apathy are common in advanced stages.
• Sleep disturbances: Insomnia, restless leg syndrome, or vivid dreams.

When to consult a doctor in case of suspecting Parkinson’s disease?

• Tremors or shaking of hands, legs, limbs or body
• Confusion and problem with memory
• Problem with movement
• Sleeping trouble
• Problem with taste of food and perfumes

Can Parkinson’s Disease Be Prevented?

Till now there is no proved way to prevent Parkinson’s disease. Lifestyle, workout routine, stress management, anger management and diet intervention to a great extent help us to stay healthy:

• Regular exercise: Exercise can improve brain health and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
• Healthy diet: A balanced diet that includes vitamins, proteins, healthy fats and other nutrients can help us to avoid or delay neuro-degeneration.
• Avoiding toxins: Avoiding toxins like pesticides and heavy metals.
• Staying mentally active: Engaging in activities that challenge the brain, such as puzzles or learning new skills, may help maintain cognitive function.
• Effective Stress Management: Stress management, anger management is important
• Proper Rest and Sleep: A proper 7-8 hours of daily sleep and some rest is required

What are the available treatment Options for Parkinson’s Disease?

• There is no exact cure for Parkinson’s disease. Various treatments of symptoms can help improve the quality of life.
• Medications: There are some drugs that help replenish or mimic dopamine in the brain.
• Physical therapy: Regular workout to improve balance, flexibility, and strength.
• Occupational therapy: Learn and adapting to techniques to easily daily tasks and minimize dependence.
• Speech therapy: Strategies to improve speech clarity and volume.
• Deep brain stimulation (DBS): A surgical procedure that involves implanting electrodes in the brain to regulate abnormal signals.

How Parkinson’s Impacts Daily Life?

Parkinson’s disease affects various aspects of daily life that includes

• Movement and walking
• Communication and speech
• Emotions
• Difficulty in performing regular tasks
• Assistance may be required with activities like dressing, bathing, cooking, driving
• Early detection, proper management and support can help patients leads a normal life to a great extent.

How to Live a Normal Life in the Early Stages of Parkinson’s?

Early detection and awareness can help people live a relatively normal life

• Stay active: Regular exercise, such as walking, yoga, or swimming, to improve mobility and reduce stiffness.
• A routine of tasks: A routine and order of tasks can help Parkinson’s patients to complete daily tasks with much ease and low or no dependence
• Adopt assistive tools: Use adaptive devices like utensils with ergonomic handles or walking aids to make tasks easier.
• Seek emotional support: Joining a support group or speaking with a counsellor can help cope with the emotional challenges of Parkinson’s.
• Continue working: Many people with early-stage Parkinson’s can continue working with minor adjustments, such as flexible hours or ergonomic workstations.

What is the Role of Family and Friends to a loved one with Parkinson’s disease?

Cooperation and care from family and friends play a big role in helping Parkinson’s patients lead a better life:

• Educate themselves: It is important to about Parkinson’s to better understand its symptoms and effects.
• Patience: Patience is important while offering support.
• Motivate to be independent: Motivate the person with Parkinson’s to be perform their task on their own with only required support
• Offer emotional support: Be a listening ear and provide reassurance during difficult times.
• Participate in activities: Join them in exercises or hobbies they enjoy to promote a sense of normalcy.

What health conditions and diseases can increase risk for Parkinson’s?

• Traumatic brain injury
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Obesity
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Infections like H. pylori, Hepatitis C
• Consumption of some antipsychotic drugs

Health and nutritional deficiency that increase risk of Parkinson’s disease?

• Vitamin D Deficiency
• B Vitamins deficiency particularly B12, B6, and folate
• CoQ10 and Glutathione are important antioxidants
• Other Micronutrients deficiency of magnesium, zinc, manganese, selenium, chromium, and phosphorus, have also been observed in people with PD
• Consumption of a diet high in cholesterol and saturated fats increases risk of PD
• Anaemia or low blood count or low haemoglobin: It has also been linked to an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s Disease in India: Statistics

In India, Parkinson’s disease cases are increasing among the aging population. It is estimated that around 0.58% of individuals over the age of 60 are affected by Parkinson’s. With the rise in life expectancy, the number of cases is expected to grow in the coming years. Early diagnosis and access to treatment remain critical challenges, especially in rural areas.

Conclusion

Parkinson’s disease is a lifechanging condition, but with early diagnosis, proper treatment, and a strong support system, individuals can lead fulfilling lives. Raising awareness about Parkinson’s and understanding its symptoms and management strategies are essential steps in improving the lives of those affected.