Some years ago the famous American actor Michael J. Fox made headlines when he revealed that he was suffering from Parkinson's Disease. While many assume that this disease is one that affects only the elderly, Mr. Fox demonstrated personally how this condition can really affect anyone at any time, and he did quite a bit of good in bringing the disease to the attention of the general public.
Parkinson's Disease is also called shaking palsy. The cause is not known but it appears that when an imbalance of two substances in the brain, dopamine and acetylcholine, exist then the symptoms of this disease are present. These two substances are need to transmit messages between the nerve cells and the muscles throughout the body. When the amount of dopamine in the brain is somehow decreased the nerve signals in the brain become confused.
Dopamine assists with muscle control and without it the body has a hard time controlling its own movements. Those with this disease usually have severe trembling in the hands, arms, legs, the areas of their face, or may experience rigidity and stiffness of their limbs and they may also have problems with incontinence. Typically they also have a slowness of movement and problems with posture and balance. As the disease progresses the patient may have trouble walking, talking, and with other everyday tasks. Extreme cases of the disease may result in difficulty with chewing and swallowing, and even speaking.
Treating Parkinson's Disease
As of now there is no cure for the disease but there are many treatment options available. Medications can help with dopamine production by stimulating the nerves responsible for this. Other medications can help with the symptoms of Parkinson's Disease by stimulating the muscles so that rigidity is reduces. Other may help with tremor. In some cases there may be surgeries that one can undergo; electrodes can be implanted into the brain so that certain areas are stimulated.
Other Options
Parkinson's Disease can be very difficult for the patient; not being able to control one's movements can make even the smallest of tasks very difficult. However, understanding one's limitations is the first step toward coping and treating the disease. A patient may need to make accommodations around the house and the office. Installing rails in the bathroom can help. When swallowing becomes difficult it's time to slow down around mealtime and take your time. Smaller bites and liquid foods are advisable. Some employers will accommodate those with this disease by allowing them to use computers that respond to voice commands so that typing is no longer as necessary. Other adjustments can be made to one's place of employment as well; moving a desk or work space closer to the restroom and using the phone and email instead of needing to show up in person for conferences and meetings can help as well. These are small changes but can make a big difference for the one with this disabling disease.
It's good to let friends and family know if you have Parkinson's Disease so they can readily assist with chores, and talk to your doctor about getting assistance from visiting nurses and other help.
Always consult your doctor before using this information.
This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.
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