Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement. It occurs when nerve cells (neurons) in a specific area of the brain responsible for producing dopamine—a crucial chemical messenger for smooth, coordinated muscle movement—gradually break down or die.
Recognizing the Symptoms: More Than Just Tremors
While symptoms can vary from person to person, the primary signs of Parkinson’s are often referred to as motor symptoms. The most common include:
Tremor: A shaking that often begins in a limb, usually a hand or fingers. A “pill-rolling” tremor, where the thumb and forefinger rub together, is classic.
Bradykinesia (Slowness of Movement): Over time, Parkinson’s may slow down voluntary movement, making simple tasks difficult and time-consuming. Steps may become shorter, or feet may feel “stuck to the floor.”
Muscle Stiffness (Rigidity): This can occur in any part of the body, often causing pain and limiting the range of motion.
Impaired Posture and Balance: This can lead to a stooped posture and increase the risk of falls.
As the disease progresses, individuals may also experience non-motor symptoms, such as:
Speech changes (soft or slurred speech) and writing that becomes small and cramped (micrographia).
Cognitive changes, including memory difficulties and slow thinking.
Sleep disorders, loss of smell, constipation, and mood disorders like depression and anxiety.
Living Well with Parkinson’s: A Multifaceted Approach to Management
While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, a comprehensive management plan can significantly alleviate symptoms, maintain independence, and improve quality of life.
1. Medication Management:
The cornerstone of treatment involves medications that help replenish or mimic dopamine in the brain.
Levodopa-Carbidopa: The most effective medication, which the brain converts into dopamine.
Dopamine Agonists: These mimic dopamine’s effects in the brain.
Other medications like MAO-B inhibitors and COMT inhibitors are also used to manage symptoms.
2. Physical Therapy and Targeted Exercise:
Staying active is not just beneficial—it’s a critical part of therapy.
Physical therapists design exercise programs to improve balance, flexibility, strength, and gait.
Activities like tai chi, yoga, and boxing classes tailored for Parkinson’s have shown remarkable benefits in slowing motor symptom progression and boosting confidence.
3. Advanced Treatments:
When medications become less consistent, advanced options may be considered.
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): A surgical procedure where electrodes are implanted in specific brain areas. These electrodes deliver electrical pulses that help regulate the abnormal brain signals causing motor symptoms. DBS can stabilize medication fluctuations and reduce tremors and rigidity.
The Power of a Supportive Team
Managing Parkinson’s effectively requires a multidisciplinary approach. A team including a neurologist (often a movement disorder specialist), physical and occupational therapists, a speech-language pathologist, and mental health professionals, alongside dedicated family and caregivers, provides the best support system.
This collaborative care model empowers patients to navigate the challenges of the disease, adapt to changes, and maintain the highest possible quality of life. Through continued research and comprehensive care, there is ongoing hope for those living with Parkinson’s.
Dr Mahsa Haghighatzadeh is a distinguished neurologist specializing in movement disorders, with her medical training and sub‐specialty fellowship conducted in […]
Dr. Parya Nobakht is a board-certified neurologist in Tehran specializing in comprehensive care for: ✔ Brain disorders ✔ Nerve & spinal cord conditions ✔ Neuromuscular […]
Dr. Naser Mehraban is a highly skilled neurologist in Tehran practicing at Besat Hospital in East Tehran, specializing in: Complex neurological disorders […]
Dr. Maryam Soleimany Qare Tepe is a board-certified neurologist in Tehran with expertise in diagnosing and treating: Chronic headaches (migraines, tension-type) Dizziness & […]
