What is Parkinson's? What kind of disease is it?

Parkinson's disease, which we often encounter in older ages, is a serious disease that is associated with a decrease in dopamine levels in the body and manifests itself with tremors in the hands. Although it is a very insidious and slowly progressing disease, it negatively affects the daily life of the person and makes it difficult. It is a progressive brain disease that begins with tremors, loss of balance, involuntary contractions and slowdowns.

What causes Parkinson's Syndrome? What are the risk factors?

Although the risk increases with age, parkinsonism has many causes,

• Genetic and hereditary causes

• Age

• Sports that involve a lot of blows to the head, such as boxing

• Head injuries

• Cigarette

• Diabetes

• The rate is higher in men

• Obesity

• Stress

• Chemicals that can cause dopamine deficiency

What are the symptoms for Parkinson's Syndrome?

Parkinson's is a disease that progresses slowly and insidiously, with symptoms changing from stage to stage. Although it often begins to manifest itself with tremors, it has many other symptoms.

Some of those;

• Tremors, especially in the hands and chin

• Balance problems, difficulties in walking

• Problems starting the movement

• Sudden oscillations

• Slowing down movements

• Slowness in speech

• Expressionless faces called mask faces

• Reductions in handwriting

• Decreases in movements

• Hunched

• Involuntary contractions and muscle stiffness

• Difficulties in walking, shuffling their feet on the ground

• Freezing in some limbs

• Difficulties in standing up

• Shortening and hesitation in steps

• Decrease or difficulty in motor skills

How is Parkinson's Syndrome diagnosed?

The patient's history is of great importance in the diagnosis of Parkinsonism. Problems and symptoms in daily life are listened to. During the physical examination, a detailed neurological evaluation is performed. Physicians may use tests and MRI imaging techniques to differentiate other disease possibilities.

What should be the treatment for Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's is a slowly progressing disease and symptoms appear gradually. Starting treatment from the early stages helps the person's daily life by preventing the symptoms from getting worse.

Due to the low dopamine level in Parkinson's disease, medications prescribed by a physician should be used carefully.

Occupational therapy studies are also important for tremors in Parkinson's disease and fine motor functions that deteriorate and slow down with the progression of the disease. Improving fine motor functions will help the person in daily living activities such as eating and wearing clothes.

In order to improve balance and coordination and increase muscle strength, physical therapy should be taken and exercises should be started under the supervision of a physiotherapist. Walking and climbing stairs should be practiced and retaught.