Many cases of the world including India The brain cells and nerves affected in PD generally help to produce smooth, coordinated movements of muscles mediated by a chemical called Dopamine. There are three common PD symptoms that gradually develop include:
1.Slowness of movement (Bradykinesia). For example, it may be too much of an effort to walk or a chair. When this first develops you might just as 'getting old' The diagnosis of the PD may not become obvious In time, a typical walking pattern often develops This is a 'shuffling' walk with some difficulty in start, stop and turning easily.
2. Stigness of muscles and muscles may feel tenser Also, your arms do not tend to swing as much when you walk
3. Shaking (tremor) is common, but does not always occur It affects the fingers, thumbs, hands and arms. It is the most noticeable when you are resting It may become worse when you are anxious or emotional It tends to become less when you use your item.
Some other symptoms may develop due to brain cells and nerves control. These include:
1) Fewer facial expressions such as smiling or frowning Reduced Blinking
2) Difficulty with fine movements such as tying shoelaces or buttoning shirts.
Difficulty writing
3) Difficulty with balance
4) Speech may be slow and monotonous
Swallowing may become troublesome and saliva in the pool.
5) Tiredness and aches and pains.
Most people with PDAs expected to have some time of relatively mild symptoms As the symptoms become worse, they may But everyone is different and it is difficult to predict
Some people can only be slightly disabled 20 years after PD first begins, while others may be highly disabled after 10 years. In the initial stages of PD reasonable activity can be maintained as permissible. But later part of it, physical activity can be quite restricted.
Most treatments to combat works by Dopamine levels.
Increasing the amount of dopamine in the brain: Levodopa is a very potent drug with good effect on Bradykinesia and rigidity with little effect on tremor. But most dreaded complication is abnormal moments (dyskinesia). During later part of the disease it can worsen confusion, hallucination.
Acting as a substitute for dopamine by stimulating the parts of the brain where dopamine works (Ropirinole & Pramipexole) also Amantadine. Dopamine is the most preferred in young patients. Slightly low in potency compared to levodopa but Impulsive and compulsive behavior is the main limiting side effect.
Central Anticholinergic (Trihexyphenidyl): used to control tremor but no action on rigidity and Bradykinesia. It can worsen confusion, constipation and urinary retention
For people suffering from PD Having plenty of fluids and eating plenty of vegetables, fruits, and foods high in fiber can reduce this. Exercise can also improve constipation. Sometimes laxatives may be needed to treat constipation.
In some people, protein (which is mainly found in meat, fish, eggs, cheese, yoghurt, nuts, beans and pulses) may interfere with the effects of their Levodopa medication. Therefore, it is generally advised that you should take your Parkinson's medication at least 30 to 45 minutes before a meal. Written by Consultant Neurologist, Gleneagles Global Hospitals, LB Nagar, Hyderabad.