A Detailed Insight Into Parkinson’s Disease

  • August 04, 2021 BY  Anthem Seniors
  • Anthem Senior Living
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Unfortunately, this article has to start on a negative note in terms of the prevalence of Parkinson’s disease (PD) in the United States, which is more than a million individuals that are living with this progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Parkinson’s is a progressive disease meaning the symptoms worsen with time. Although there’s no definite cure, researchers are working on investigating new treatments. It is crucial to learn and recognize the early signs of PD so that early treatment can be sought, which is key to dealing with PD.

PD affects one’s movement, for example, little to no expression on the face, arms not swinging while walking are some signs when PD is in the early stages. The symptoms worsen as the disease progresses with time.

PD signs to watch out for:

No two individuals will show the same symptoms. Early signs may not be that obvious, so there’s the risk of going unnoticed. Some common signs and symptoms include

  1. a tremor or shaking in hand or fingers,
  2. slowed movement making it difficult to carry out even the basic activities of daily living, for example, difficulty walking or getting out of a chair, which may lead to the need for Anthem assisted living,
  3. muscle stiffness may take place in a part of your body,
  4. stooped posture and impaired balance,
  5. changes in speech (slurry speech), and
  6. difficulty writing.

Complications:

Additional issues often tag along Parkinson’s disease, such as cognitive issues (dementia), difficulty swallowing, depression, sleep problems, constipation and bladder problems.

Vital facts about Parkinson’s disease you should know:

  1. Diagnosis of the disease is more common among older adults, seniors over 60 years of age, however, someone as young as 21 could equally be at the risk to develop the disease. Symptoms are the same for both age groups.
  2. Any definitive test for PD is yet to see the light of day. It is mainly through a physical examination, medical and family history that doctors make a diagnosis.
  3. Reasons for PD or what causes the condition is still not clear. Mutations in several genes in people with PD are what scientists have come to conclude. Again the reasons for the mutations are still unknown. Also, a family history of PD makes one susceptible to the condition.
  4. Parkinson’s disease may lead to Parkinson’s dementia that causes a decline in one’s thinking and reasoning. Another type of dementia that is commonly seen among people with PD is Lewy Body Dementia (LBD), which may or may not develop in association with Parkinson’s. LBD can develop as a standalone condition too, meaning in the absence of Parkinson’s.
  5. Talking about the causes and treatments, research is ongoing in order to delve deep into the causes in the efforts to come out with treatments with respect to causes.
  6. Gene therapy for Parkinson’s may be the way forward to come up with an effective treatment option.

It is important to consult with your doctor and get yourself evaluated if any sign or symptom related to PD show up. Do not delay, since early the diagnosis the better.

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