One of the most common nervous disorders that affects elderly individuals is Parkinson's disease. It usually first manifests itself around the age of fifty, but this number can be different for any patient or individual.
Parkinson's is a condition that affects the brain and causes shaking, or tremors, as well as difficulty with other tasks related to movement, like walking and coordination. Approximately one million people in North America suffer from PD, and it is more likely to appear in men than in women.
Sometimes, it is hereditary and is inherited from family members; on occasion, those that are younger than middle age will be affected, and this usually occurs in genetically inherited cases. In the brain, nerve cells make a chemical called dopamine, which helps with movement.
In cases of Parkinson's these cells are damaged and prevent the production of dopamine. This means that the usual messages and pathways are restricted or damaged, and the body is not able to respond or function in the normal way.
It can also possibly pay a huge contribution to the loss of muscle function and rigidity in the limbs. Unfortunately, these problems can worsen over time and the rapidity of movement loss usually tends to increase the longer the individual suffers from the disease.
Though there are two different sides of the brain that control different areas and sides of the body, PD can cause problems for either. The individual's overall level of mobility generally tends to vary from case to case, so it is not certain how much you, as a patient, will suffer.
The first indications of the condition are usually fairly small, either noticing a small tremor or inability to keep still or stiffness in the legs. However, as the symptoms become more substantial, there are other things that one who is affected may notice.
One may notice that automatic or involuntary movements, like blinking, slow down considerably. Drooling is another symptom that may occur from time to time, or even frequently.
Muscle aches and pains may also increase, as well as difficulty walking, running, or moving around easily. Stiffness is an indicator of Parkinson's, as are small tremors or difficulty with fine movement.
These physical symptoms may manifest themselves, but there are also mental instabilities that could be present in the case of this condition. Patients might also suffer from symptoms of dementia, depression, anxiety, memory loss, and hallucinations.
If you notice any of these indicators, it is probably best to visit your physician as soon as possible. As with any disease that increases in intensity rapidly, it is vital to catch them early on to be diagnosed and begin some kind of treatment.
As far as treatment goes, there is no specific cure for the disease. The main goal of any PD treatment is to control the symptoms and make their way of life easier for those that suffer.
Most medications that are used increase the amount of dopamine in the brain; they must be taken in specific doses at certain times of the day. These chemicals can help to lessen the effects of Parkinson's, but they may not be very effective on more serious symptoms, like speech impediments and frozen movements.
Many may notice that changing their lifestyle and diet offers a small change in the problems that are associated with the condition, but this is never certain. First off, one must follow general nutrition guidelines and stick to a healthy diet.
Almost any individual can benefit from the ingestion of healthy vegetables and fruits, as well as grains and lean meats. No matter what age or condition the body is in, it is usually best to fill it with nutrients and vitamins that support the organs and the rest of the system.
Those that suffer from PD may also be able to keep their range of motion through the use of daily exercise. Patients will most likely have to adapt their routine to fit the changing movement allowance and intensity of disease, but working the body's muscles and cardiovascular system may offer some kind of assistance or relief.
When problems associated with the disease worsen, patients may need help from physical, speech, or occupational therapists. These individuals are trained to increase patients' ability to speak and also perform necessary daily tasks by themselves.
As tremors get worse and the body stiffens, daily physical care may be more difficult. Occupational therapists may be able to help, but if the situation worsens, they may need to live with a family member that can help them or be placed in a home for those who have mobility issues.
Coping with this disorder can be tough, so those with Parkinson's may also want to receive counsel from social workers or become involved in support groups. Though there is no set cure for the disease, patients can possibly gain hope from the help of their doctors and others who suffer.
Author Resource:-
Tommy Greene has worked in surgical equipment sales for the past 15 years. He has great advice and information on Bovie.
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