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Parkinson’s Disease Demystified: Age-Related Risk Factors & Essential Symptom Awareness You Need to Know

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Understanding Parkinson’s Disease: Symptoms, Treatment, and Quality of Life Improvement

Parkinson’s Disease is a neurological disorder that affects the brain, gradually progressing over time. Every year, on April 11th, World Parkinson’s Day is observed worldwide. On this special occasion, let’s delve into insights about this condition from expert perspectives. According to Dr. Chandrashekhar Barnawal, Senior Consultant at Raj Diagnostics, “Parkinson’s Disease weakens the neurons responsible for sending messages to certain muscles in the body. Over time, its symptoms become more severe. This disease affects muscle control, balance, activity, as well as cognitive and mental health.”

Age of Onset

Dr. Barnawal notes, “Parkinson’s disease typically begins around the age of 60 on average. With time, its symptoms become more severe.”

Predominance in Males

It’s noteworthy that Parkinson’s Disease is more commonly found in males compared to females. It’s a neurological disorder associated with motor activity, where the body experiences a decrease in dopamine, resulting in slowed movements and tremors. As the disease progresses, the risk of dementia (memory impairment) and depression also increases.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Disease manifests through various symptoms. Dr. Barnawal explains some common signs usually observed in individuals:

Slowed Activity

  • Continuous trembling of muscles even at rest
  • Stiffness with difficulty moving body parts
  • Unbalanced physical posture
  • Reduced blinking of eyes
  • Rigidity
  • Drooling
  • Swallowing difficulties
  • Unusually slow speech

Treatment Options

Several treatment approaches exist to manage Parkinson’s Disease:

  1. Dopamine Agonist Medications: These drugs mimic dopamine activity in the brain and help alleviate symptoms.
  2. Physical Therapy: Intervention through physical therapy can aid in improving muscle strength and activities, enhancing balance and coordination, and reducing the risk of falls.
  3. Speech Therapy: Speech therapy can help alleviate difficulties in speaking and swallowing
  4. .Stress Management: Learning stress management techniques can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease.

Parkinson’s Disease presents significant challenges, impacting not only physical health but also mental well-being. However, with early diagnosis and appropriate management strategies, individuals can lead fulfilling lives despite the disease’s progression.