As the second-leading neurodegenerative disorder in the U.S., it is estimated that approximately 1 million Americans have Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, that number is likely much higher, given that no two people have the exact same symptoms, making it commonly misdiagnosed.
April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, so we’re using this month’s articles to spread understanding and support those diagnosed, their families, and their caregivers. In this first article, we’re sharing five key things everyone should know about PD. Let’s get started!
Key Takeaways
- Parkinson’s disease symptoms are caused by a breakdown in dopamine production in the brain’s substantia nigra.
- Exercise is one of the best ways to manage motor skill decline.
- Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a promising treatment option for improving some individuals’ quality of life.
- Dopamine Deficiency Disrupts Movement
As we mentioned, Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder, meaning it stems from the brain. What actually causes the physical, and later on mental, decline is the reduction in dopamine production in the neurons, the brain’s communication network, located in the substantia nigra, the area of the brain that controls motor function. As a neurotransmitter, dopamine travels between neurons, sending messages in the brain that are then translated to other parts of the body to create movement that is smooth and intentional.
As neurons malfunction and die in the substantia nigra, less dopamine is produced, resulting in physical, and later mental, declines in muscle control. This decline leads to chronic, progressive effects on the central nervous system, creating the hallmark motor symptoms of PD, such as tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement.
- Exercise Is a Lifeline for Parkinson’s Patients
Because PD attacks mobility, flexibility, and balance, a disciplined exercise regime is one of the most effective methods to manage the disorder. As soon as a patient is diagnosed, if they are not already regularly active, they should be prescribed a daily exercise program that aligns with their physical fitness capabilities by a physical therapist. Exercises with a strong focus on aerobic activity, flexibility and stretching, resistance training, as well as yoga, pilates, tai chi, dance, and non-contact boxing are all appropriate, effective activities. One study even showed that patients who participated in tai chi had reduced balance impairment and fewer falls.
Additionally, these activities also help curb non-movement symptoms like anxiety, depression, and constipation.
- It’s Not Just Shaking—Non-Motor Parkinson’s Symptoms
While PD is commonly known to affect a person’s motor skills, as the disorder progresses, it begins to affect non-motor systems. Non-motor symptoms can actually be the most challenging to manage for both the patient and their caregiver and family. Common examples include:
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Dementia
- Delayed cognitive function
- Hallucinations and delusions
- Constipation
- Bladder issues
- Freezing of gait (a condition where every step you take feels like you’re falling)
- Deep Brain Stimulation for Symptom Relief
One of the most promising options for treating advanced PD is Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). It involves electrodes placed deeply in the brain and what’s called a pulse generator implanted under the patient’s collarbone. The pulse generator sends controlled electrical signals to the electrodes through wires under the skin. When activated, the two mechanisms stimulate the brain, blocking signals that cause a lot of the symptoms people experience with PD.
This treatment option is usually turned to once PD has become more advanced and a patient has developed a resistance to or is experiencing side effects from long-term levodopa (a motor symptom treatment medication) use.
Although it’s not a cure and there is much that is still unknown about some aspects of DBS, it has shown potential to significantly improve the quality of life for some individuals.
- Early Clues You Might Miss
Two symptoms that often appear before classic motor symptoms are micrographia and anosmia. Micrographia is characterized by abnormally small, crowded handwriting that may also progressively get smaller. Anosmia refers to a partial or complete loss of smell that can be temporary or permanent. If you notice either of these changes in yourself or a loved one, you can mention it to your physician or them or their physician if you’re their caretaker and stay vigilant to any other more obvious symptoms of PD.
RMC Supports Parkinson’s Awareness Month
Raising awareness is one of the best ways to increase early diagnosis for Parkinson’s Disease. With April being Parkinson’s Awareness Month, we here at RMC are doing our part to ensure our community stays informed on what to look for and what actions to take.
With a full spectrum of care for brain, spinal cord, and nervous system conditions and a neurologic care team that includes neurologists, neurovascular surgeons, and other healthcare professionals, we’re here to provide comprehensive care for those experiencing a decline or change in their brain health. Contact us today for access to advanced diagnostic technology and progressive treatment options for neurological conditions.