Parkinson’s Disease

The Brief Guide to Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s is one of the many common degenerative disorders affecting millions of people around the world. It is a central nervous system disorder that affects the motor system of the body. Rigidity, immobility, imbalance, shivering, etc. are some of the major symptoms of this disorder. There is no complete cure for this disorder, but technology has helped reduce the pain and hassle while handling it.

What are the Causes for Parkinson’s Disease?

The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is not known. The dopamine-producing cells in the human brain are affected due to some genetic factors which result in them dying. This, in turn, reduces the dopamine levels drastically. Dopamine is responsible for carrying the messages from the brain to the different limbs for movement and reduction in dopamine causes Parkinson’s.

What are the Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?

There are a number of symptoms that could clearly indicate if a person suffers from Parkinson’s disease. They are divided into two broad categories, motor Parkinson’s symptoms and non-motor Parkinson’s symptoms.

Motor Symptoms

• Tremors
• Bradykinesia
• Rigidity
• Slowness of Movement
• Postural Instability

Non-Motor Symptoms

• Disorder of Speech
• Disorder of Cognition
• Disorder of Mood
• Disorder of Behavior
• Disorder of Thought

Insomnia is also a major symptom common among most of the people who suffer from Parkinson’s disease.

Is There a Cure to Parkinson’s Disease?

There is no complete cure to this disease but thanks to medical innovation we have come up with ways to increase or mimic dopamine in the body. This does not exactly cure the disease but slows the onset of the motor disabilities and hence helps in coping with it easily. Rehabilitation and other coping methods are common and can be put into use to reduce the difficulties faced due to Parkinson’s disease.

Major Rehabilitation Option for Parkinson’s Disease

Dressing Aids

Dressing aids such as button hooks and zipper pulls are ideal for individuals who lack dexterity, undergo tremors and difficulty with coordination and balance. Apparels which contain hidden magnets are also a boon.

Shower Aids

Taking a bath can be a cakewalk with the right aids, from shower seats to long-handle sponge kits. Support handles can be installed in the bathroom so that there is minimal risk of slipping or falling down.

Kitchen Aids

Working in the kitchen can be a difficult task as many of the activities in the kitchen require dexterous movements. Cutting, chopping, etc can be easier using cutting boards and knives designed especially for people with Parkinson’s. 

Walking Aids

Walking, in general, can sometimes be a difficult task, and so supports such as canes, come in handy. They not only support the person while walking but can also be good gripping objects for when tremors occur.

Dining And Drinking Aids

Dining is another difficult task and can be easily accomplished using dining aids such as special grip fork and knives, scoop plates and dishes, special grip cups and mugs, etc.

Living with Parkinson’s can be a challenge both for the patient and the caregivers. Having access to the right equipment and products can make life much less of a struggle than it could otherwise be. It is all about finding what could make your life easier!

 

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