Do you know? Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative neurological condition mostly affecting motor functions. Tremors or uncontrollable shaking in the hands, arms, legs, jaw, or head are the most prevalent symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, according to Dr. Pankaj Agarwal, Head of the Department of Neurology, Gleneagles Hospital Parel, Mumbai. These tremors often affect a person’s quality of life and cause disruptions to everyday routines.
Bradykinesia, or slowness of movement, is another typical symptom that results in difficulties starting a movement, slower walking pace, and decreased mobility overall. Later stages of Parkinson’s disease may also result in weariness, sadness, anxiety, sleep difficulties, memory loss, and trouble focusing.
In order to improve overall well-being and successfully treat both motor and non-motor symptoms, people with Parkinson’s disease should collaborate closely with their physician. As soon as symptoms appear, one must seek prompt medical attention; the course of therapy will depend on the patient’s symptoms and illness stage.
mild illness People may have minor symptoms in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease that may not substantially interfere with their daily activities or general quality of life. At this point, tremors and problems with mobility that mostly affect one side of the body are common symptoms. Thankfully, there are drugs that may effectively relieve these first symptoms.
Progression of the disease: Posture problems and tense muscles There are tremors, rigidity, shaking, and strange facial expressions during the second stage. It may be difficult to finish chores if you have movement issues, such as muscular stiffness. Additionally, posture may be impacted, resulting in neck and back discomfort. While most people in this stage are able to live independently, their symptoms may make it difficult for them to do everyday tasks.
People with advanced Parkinson’s disease can have worse balance and fewer reflexes. They could thus seem to be moving more slowly or have more obvious mobility issues. At this point, falls tend to happen more often. There is a major impact on motor abilities. One’s capacity to maintain independence may be seriously hampered by this decline in motor function, and many end up needing walking assistance. Daily tasks become challenging at this point.
The advanced stage of Parkinson’s disease is characterised by rigidity. At this point, severe leg stiffness may make it impossible to walk or stand, increasing the risk of accidents. Sadly, a significant portion of people are confined to wheelchairs.
By customising therapies to address certain symptoms, professionals may assist in optimising patients’ quality of life.