Parkinson’s disease is a disorder of the central nervous system that gradually destroys motor neurons and leaves sufferers with no movement. It is a chronic disease and the most common of inherited disorders. The disease results from the degeneration of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain which ultimately causes the tremor (motor weakness) and loss of movement. Parkinson’s symptoms can vary greatly, from mild to severe, dependent upon the severity of the disease and environmental factors. Some people may not even have Parkinson’s symptoms.
The first step toward determining whether or not you have Parkinson’s symptoms is to learn about your medical history. Contact all family members for a medical history review. Note any changes in speech, language or swallowing habits. Also note if there is an improvement or deterioration in any of your previously documented medical conditions. If there are no previous family members with Parkinson’s disease, it is likely you do not have it.
Parkinson’s symptoms will deteriorate over time as the disease progresses. Each symptom will progressively get worse until the individual begins to lose the ability to perform daily tasks including tying shoes or operating a motor vehicle. It can be hard to realize that the disease has reached this point, but you must begin to document your symptoms carefully. Your doctor will use tests such as dopamine measurements and magnetic resonance imaging to determine the progression of the disease.
Parkinson’s symptoms may include rigidity (body rigidity) or muscle rigidity (a stiff neck). Early symptoms often develop in the early to mid-age years, and the muscles become rigid when they are contracted. There may also be brittleness of the limbs, particularly the muscles of the spine and pelvis. This stiffness becomes worse when movement is required.
Other symptoms include rigidity or stiffness of the eyes, difficulty talking (with or without voice modulation), uncontrolled blinking, poor balance, and uncontrollable movement of the body (such as twitching). The condition usually affects the hands, legs, and face. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder of the central nervous system that causes the death of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain. These nerve cells to make dopamine, a chemical that gives movement to muscles. When the brain loses dopamine due to cell death, there is not enough activity to allow for everyday movement, and the result is tremors, which are involuntary twitches or shakes of the arms, legs, and sometimes even the face.
Once you start to see these early symptoms, it is important to be seen by a doctor. There are two types of treatments available; dopamine agonists and L-dopa. Dopamine agonists are used to control symptoms of Parkinson’s, while L-dopa is a prescription medication that helps the brain to produce dopamine. If you are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and are having difficulty taking your medicine on schedule, talk to your doctor about using a combination treatment consisting of medications. A Parkinson’s support group is available locally and can help patients cope with the emotional stress of this disease.
Parkinson’s symptoms usually worsen as the patient gets older, but he or she can take medication as late as sixty years old. While the treatment of Parkinson’s is ongoing, patients should practice daily self-care to maintain balance, agility, and range of motion. Exercise helps the brain to release dopamine and encourages balanced mental functions. Therapy and behavioral modification techniques can be used to teach patients to focus their attention and to overcome impulsive, confusing, or obsessing tendencies. The most common mistake made by caregivers is not being consistent with medication and patient expectations.
Parkinson’s disease can be a disabling disease for victims’ families. However, research has shown that medical treatments can greatly help improve the quality of life for patients. Medications such as felodipine, risperdal, and perphenazine are effective at slowing down dopamine activity in the brain and helping patients maintain muscle function. However, it’s important to note that these medications cannot restore natural dopamine production in the brain. Proper diet and lifestyle changes can help control Parkinson’s symptoms.
Oren Zarif – Psychokinesis Treatment