Parkinson's Disease
...and balance. Parkinsons disease usually affects people 55 - 75 years old, but it can develop in younger people as well. The disease is progressive, with symptoms becoming more severe over time.
Symptoms of Parkinsons Disease
Parkinsons disease is difficult to diagnose in its early stages. The disease is diagnosed mostly through symptoms, which may include:
• Tremors (shaking) in the hands, arms, legs, and face
• Slowness of movement, especially when initiating motion
• Muscle rigidity
• Difficulty with walking, balance, and coordination
• Difficulty eating and swallowing
• Digestive problems
• Speech problems
• Depression and difficulties with memory and thought processes
Treatment
There is no cure for Parkinsons disease. Treatments focus on controlling symptoms and improving quality of life.
• Medications. Because Parkinsons disease symptoms are due to a lack of the brain chemical dopamine, the main drug treatments help increase dopamine levels in the brain. Levadopa, usually combined with carbidopa, is the standard drug treatment. For patients who do not respond to levadopa, dopamine agonist drugs may be prescribed. Other types of medication may also be used. Unfortunately, many of these drugs can cause side effects and lose effectiveness over time.
• Physical Therapy. Physical therapy is an important part of Parkinsons treatment. Rehabilitation can help patients improve their mobility, speech, and functional abilities.
• Surgery. In some cases of advanced-stage Parkinsons disease, surgery may help to control motor problems. Deep brain stimulation is currently the preferred surgical method.
Drug Recall
In 2008, the manufacturers of transdermal rotigotine (Neupro) recalled all batches of the skin patch because of formulation problems. It is not known if the product will return to the market.
Introduction
Parkinson's disease (PD) is...
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