Parkinson's disease advice

I had submitted my question on parkinson's disease and yet to receive your advise. Kindly answer me.
(10 Mar 2008)

Parkinson's disease can be defined as a progressive and chronic neurodegenerative movement disorder. Difficulty in walking, poor balance, slow movement and tremors are all characteristic symptoms of this particular condition. The exact cause of this disease still remains to be a mystery.

The basal ganglia is that portion of the brain, which is responsible for all our bodily movements. The brain cells that are present in the basal ganglia require, that a proper balance is maintained between two substances known as acetylcholine and dopamine; both of which are involved in the process of transmitting nerve impulses. Now, when a person suffers from Parkinson’s disease, the cells responsible for producing dopamine start degenerating. Since there is an insufficient amount of dopamine being produced, the balance between the other brain transmitters, like acetylcholine, and dopamine is largely disturbed.

Dopamine plays the role of a chemical messenger which is responsible for carrying signals between the brain cells in order to produce purposeful and smooth muscle activity. Thus, when there is a loss of dopamine the right amount of signals are not being transmitted and the nerve cells start firing out of control, as a result of which patients are unable to control or direct their movements in the desired manner. What causes these brain cells to degenerate is still being determined. However some theories state that it could be brought about due to excessive drug use, genetics, severe trauma to a person’s head and exposure to certain types of toxins. Some of the symptoms of this condition are; poor balance, slow movements, rigid or stiff movements, poor coordination, cramped handwriting, shuffling gait, slurred speech and a loss of certain reflex movements such as blinking. In addition to these symptoms people suffering from this condition may also at time experience sleep disorders, depression and they could develop involuntary tremors and twitches, such as a trembling of the hands face and jaws.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for this condition. However, a large umber of treatments are available that can help in keeping symptoms under control to a certain extent. Treatment involves making the individual more comfortable, helping them maintain independence as long as they possibly can. At times physiotherapy may be used as a mode of treatment, to help keep the limbs flexible. Additionally certain drugs may be administered that acts as a supplement to the dopamine that has been lost, controlling tremors to some extent. Family education and support groups also form a part of some treatments.

answered by G M on 14 Apr 2010, 9:45:29

Parkinson's Disease Information

What exactly is your query? Do you want general information about the disorder? Parkinson's disease is also referred to as shaking palsy or paralysis agitans. It affects that part of the brain, which is essential for muscle movement regulation. Dopamine, a chemical synthesised by the neurons fail to perform or are secreted less in individuals suffering from this disorder.

Simple tasks, such as walking, talking and performance of daily activities are disrupted. Slow movement, stiffness of the trunk and extremities, poor coordination and balance and trembling of the jaws, face and hands are common. Difficulty in swallowing, chewing and speaking accompanied with sleep disorders are also common. Depression is another difficult factor to handle in such individuals. In coordination in movements is attributed to the lack of dopamine functioning.

Parkinson's disease or PD is a degenerative disorder, affecting the central nervous system. A balanced diet with vitamin and mineral supplements are provided. Whole grains, fruits, oats and adequate water are necessary, in case of constipation. Eggs, fruit juices, cereals and nuts are included to provide a wholesome diet. Certain medications, toxins, heredity, cerebral anoxia, head trauma and toxins are the causative factors that contribute to Parkinson's disease. Pallidotomy, thalamotomy and deep brain stimulation are the surgical methods of treatment. Support group services, family education, exercise, nutrition and physiotherapy are the various other modes of treatment.

answered by Dr C on 10 Mar 2008, 2:51:22

Parkinson's disease advice

I had submitted my question on parkinson's disease and yet to receive your advise. Kindly answer me. (10 Mar 2008)

I had submitted my question on parkinson's disease and yet to receive your advise. Kindly answer me.
(10 Mar 2008)