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May 17, 2024

Understanding Parkinson’s Disease

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By Juan Diego Drouet
Content Writter
Parkinson's disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that mainly affects the nervous system by mainly attacking the brain cells that produce dopamine. The loss of these cells causes a variety of dysfunctions in coordination, motor skills, and may affect decision-making due to mental instability that can be triggered by a lack of dopamine. Typical motor symptoms include tremors, muscle rigidity, slowness of movement (bradykinesia), balance disorders, and postural disorders. Non-motor symptoms include sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety, fatigue, cognitive impairment, and problems urinating and digesting.

Why is it important to understand Parkinson's disease?

Understanding Parkinson's disease is important for people with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers. This allows empathizing with the Parkinson's community to receive more effective treatment, focusing on their environment and daily routine to alleviate symptoms and receive emotional and psychological support.

 

The development of Parkinson

The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is unknown, but genetic, environmental, and biological factors are suspected. Risk factors can vary by individual, but advanced age, genetics, exposure to environmental toxins such as pesticides and heavy metals, and certain pre-existing conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure influence a large number of people. However, today new cases of younger people suffering from it are known.

 

How is Parkinson's diagnosed?

Parkinson's disease is diagnosed through an examination that includes a medical history, physical examination, and brain imaging. Although there is no definitive test for Parkinson's disease, the diagnostic criteria established by the International Parkinson Society and the European Society of Clinical Neurology are important in identifying the disease.

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What are the biggest challenges for people with Parkinson's Disease and their caregivers?

Challenges include managing symptoms, adapting to functional changes, adapting to lifestyle and daily routines, and coping with the emotional and physical stress associated with the disease.

  • Education: Learning more about Parkinson's disease and its symptoms can provide you with better support.
  • Commitment: A regular routine and proper commitment can help manage symptoms.
  • Emotional support: Encouraging words and non-judgmental listening can make a big difference.

What tools are available for people with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers?

There are many resources available to you and your loved ones. These include support groups, occupational therapy, physical therapy, medications, and assistive devices.

How you can leave your mark by supporting Parkinson's research to find a cure?

Participating in research studies helps us better understand Parkinson's disease and find new treatment options. People with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers can find opportunities to participate in clinical trials and research.

A report from the field: Solving the motivation problem

  • Name: Carlos
  • Age at diagnosis: 55 years
  • Diagnosis: mild Parkinson's disease

Carlos enjoys his work as an engineer, lives an active life and dedicates time to his hobby, photography. However, he began to notice subtle changes in his mobility and coordination, which worried him.

After diagnosis

The diagnosis was a hard blow for Carlos, but he was determined to face it with determination and motivation. He began studying Parkinson's disease and prescribed specific exercises to improve mobility and relieve symptoms. They also join local and online support groups to share their experiences with other patients and learn from their experiences.

Carlos incorporates exercise into his daily regimen, focusing on aerobic and strength exercises to maintain strength and flexibility.

  • Maintain a positive attitude: Carlos tries to maintain a positive attitude and sees every challenge as an opportunity to improve and learn more about himself.
  • Social support: Joining a support group and sharing experiences with others provided Carlos with an important support network and made him feel that he was not alone in his fight against Parkinson's.
  • Adapting hobbies: Although photography has not been easy due to his symptoms, Carlos has found new ways to pursue his passion, such as documenting his journey to recovery and sharing his experiences on the blog. and his social networks.

In short, with motivation, education, and social support, Carlos was able to effectively manage his Parkinson's symptoms and continue to lead a full and meaningful life. Experience shows that with the right approach, it is possible to overcome the challenges of the disease and continue with an optimistic attitude.

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