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Understanding Parkinson's Disease: Diagnosis, Care and Treatment World Parkinson’s Day | 11th April

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and often includes tremors, stiffness and difficulty with coordination and balance. According to the Parkinson's Foundation, approximately there are currently more than 10 million people worldwide living with the condition. In honour of World Parkinson's Day, we at Neotia Mediplus OPD & Diagnostics Clinic would like to take this opportunity to raise awareness about this condition and provide information on its diagnosis, care and treatment.

Diagnosis:

The diagnosis of Parkinson's disease is often challenging, as there is no specific test to confirm the condition. Instead, doctors rely on a combination of medical history, physical examination and neurological examination to make a diagnosis. The following are some of the common symptoms of Parkinson's disease:

• Tremors or shaking of the hands, arms, legs or jaw.
• Stiffness or rigidity of the limbs and trunk.
• Slow movement or bradykinesia.
• Poor balance and coordination.
• Changes in speech and writing.

It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions, so a thorough evaluation is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis.

Care

Caring for a loved one with Parkinson's disease can be challenging, but there are several steps you can take to ensure they receive the best possible care:

• Encourage regular exercise, as it can help improve symptoms and overall well-being.
• Provide a safe and supportive environment, free from hazards that could cause falls or injuries.
• Help with daily activities, such as dressing, grooming and eating, as needed.
• Encourage regular appointments with a healthcare provider to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
• Seek support from family, friends and support groups to help manage the stress and challenges of caregiving.

Treatment:

While there is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease, there are several treatment options available to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These include:

• Medications: There are several medications available to help manage the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, including levodopa, dopamine agonists, and MAO-B inhibitors. These medications work by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain, which helps to improve movement and reduce stiffness. Medication should be taken as prescribed by the neurologist and Self-medication is not advisable.
• Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): DBS is a surgical procedure that involves implanting a device in the brain that sends electrical impulses to the areas responsible for movement. This can help to reduce tremors, stiffness and other symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve mobility, balance and coordination in people with Parkinson's disease. Our expert and qualified physical therapist can work with you to develop an exercise program that is tailored to your specific needs and abilities.
• Speech Therapy: Speech therapy can help to improve communication skills and reduce speech difficulties in people with Parkinson's disease. A speech therapist can work with you to develop strategies to improve your voice volume, clarity and articulation.

Parkinson's disease is a challenging condition that affects movement and quality of life. However, with proper diagnosis, care and treatment, people with Parkinson's disease can lead fulfilling and productive lives. At Neotia Mediplus we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to our patients with Parkinson's disease. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, we encourage you to reach out to us for support and guidance.

In honour of World Parkinson's Day, we encourage everyone to take a moment to learn more about this condition and the impact it has on the lives of those affected. Together, we can raise awareness and support those living with Parkinson's disease.