Thursday, October 6, 2011
Parkinson's Disease
Today's topic is about Parkinson's disease. Why my sudden curiosity about Parkinson's disease? I have heard about this medical term numerous times but didn't bother to find out what it is. Until recently I became interested in Speech/Occupational Therapy, I came across this medical term again. I read that Speech/Occupational therapist do treat such people. And hence.. ta dah! Labels: Parkinson's Disease
Again this post is not a very comprehensive one. For more info, find it out yourself :)
Generally Parkinson's Disease develops in people of age 50 and above. It is caused by the death of lactotrope cells in brain, which produces dopamine. Dopamines are used by nerve cells to control movements. Without dopamine, these nerve cells cannot properly send out signals anymore. Hence there is a delay or difficulty in movements, or loss of muscle function.
Not to be confused with Parkinson's Dementia, not all patients with Parkinson's Disease will get dementia. Only about 20% of the people will suffer from it.
Currently there is no clinical/laboratory test to determine if a person has Parkinson's Disease. Usually it is diagnosed based on symptoms and physical examination. And there is no known cure for this disease. Treatment such as speech/occupational/physio therapy only assist to better control muscles. Medical treatment includes medication to increase the level of dopamine in the brain. Over time, the doctor may have to increase dosage to a point that medications will not work anymore. There are also side effects that come along with the medications, such as hallucinations, nausea, vomiting etc. When medications are not enough to control symptoms, surgery and deep brain stimulation can be of use. In the final stages of the disease, palliative care is provided to enhance quality of life.
