Parkinson's disease is a type of condition where parts of the brain start to become more damaged over the years. Some of the main symptoms of the disease include involuntary tremors, slow movement, and inflexible or stiff muscles. This condition is caused by the loss of nerve cells in certain parts of the brain known as the substantia nigra. Usually, this process leads to a loss of dopamine in the brain, which is an essential chemical for the body. Exactly what causes the disease is often unclear. Here, we'll look at the best treatment options to help manage Parkinson's disease.
Improving Quality of Life:
When looking at the best treatment options to help manage Parkinson's disease, it's important to remember that there's currently no cure for this illness, but treatments can be used to help relieve various symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients. Usually, these treatments include a combination of surgery, supportive therapies, and medication.
During the earliest stages of the disease, you might not need any treatment, as the symptoms are typically quite mild. However, you may need to undergo regular appointments with a specialist to help monitor your condition. Additionally, there are several therapies that can make it easier to live with the illness, and ensure that you're prepared to live with your symptoms on a daily basis.
Therapies for Parkinson's Disease:
One of the best treatment options to help manage Parkinson's disease is therapy. For instance, physiotherapy can help relieve joint pain and muscle stiffness through regular exercise programs. Additionally, occupational therapists can help you to identify solutions for difficult parts of your life. As some of the patients struggle to swallow and speak, a language therapist may be necessary to help reduce discomfort and counteract problems with speech.
Dietary advice can also help with reducing common symptoms such as dizziness, low blood pressure, unintentional weight loss, and constipation.
Medication and Surgery:
Besides therapeutic solutions, the best treatment options to help manage Parkinson's disease might include medication and surgery. The medication offered is usually to reduce shaking and tremors caused by the disease, but this is not always needed. Additionally, the long and short term effects of each medication can differ, and it's important to discuss your options with your doctor in depth before you start taking medication.
While most patients can be treated with medication, there is a type of surgery available called deep brain stimulation that can sometimes help. This surgery involves surgically implanting pulse generators into the wall of your chest. This will be connected to fine wires that are placed throughout your skin and inserted into specific areas of the brain. Although this will not cure the illness, it can reduce the tremors experienced by some patients.
Additionally, treatment might be given to manage the additional symptoms, including erectile dysfunction, anxiety and depression, insomnia, swallowing difficulties, and urinary incontinence. Often, your doctor will help you to address all of your symptoms and the available treatment options that could help you to live more comfortably with your condition.