Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Disease

Overview

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination. It occurs due to a loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. While there is no cure, early diagnosis and specialized treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Our DM (Neuro Medicine) department offers advanced therapies for Parkinson’s disease, focusing on symptom control and slowing disease progression.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

• Tremors (shaking) in hands, arms, legs, or jaw
• Slowed movements (bradykinesia)
• Muscle stiffness and rigidity
• Impaired balance and frequent falls
• Changes in speech and handwriting
• Difficulty swallowing and chewing
• Mood changes, including depression and anxiety
• Sleep disturbances

Diagnosis

Early and accurate diagnosis is key to managing Parkinson’s effectively. We use:

• Neurological Examination: Evaluating movement, reflexes, and muscle strength.
• Dopamine Transporter Scan (DaTscan): A specialized imaging test to detect dopamine deficiency.
• MRI & CT Scans: To rule out other neurological conditions.
• Genetic Testing: For individuals with a family history of Parkinson’s.

Treatment Options

Our individualized treatment plans aim to relieve symptoms and improve daily functioning:

• Medication Therapy:
  
  • Levodopa-Carbidopa: The most effective drug for managing motor symptoms.
  • Dopamine Agonists: Mimic dopamine’s effects in the brain.
  • MAO-B Inhibitors: Help prevent the breakdown of dopamine.
  • Anticholinergics: Reduce tremors and muscle stiffness.
  • Amantadine: Provides relief from involuntary movements (dyskinesia).
• Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS):
  
  • A surgical procedure where electrodes are implanted in specific brain regions to regulate abnormal nerve signals, reducing tremors and rigidity.
• Botulinum Toxin Injections:
  
  • Used for treating specific symptoms like muscle rigidity and excessive drooling.
• Physical & Occupational Therapy:
  
  • Focuses on improving mobility, balance, and coordination.
  • Techniques to enhance daily activities and prevent falls.
• Speech Therapy:
  
  • Helps with voice modulation and swallowing difficulties.
• Dietary & Lifestyle Modifications:
  
  • A high-fiber diet to manage constipation.
  • Regular exercise to maintain mobility and muscle strength.
  • Mindfulness and stress management techniques.

Specialized Care for Parkinson’s Patients

• Parkinson’s Support & Counseling: Emotional and psychological support for patients and caregivers.
• Rehabilitation Programs: Customized physiotherapy to enhance movement and flexibility.
• Non-Motor Symptom Management: Addressing sleep disturbances, cognitive changes, and mood disorders.

When to Seek Treatment

If you or a loved one experience persistent tremors, slowed movement, balance issues, or difficulty with daily tasks, seeking early neurological evaluation can lead to better management and improved quality of life.

Our DM (Neuro Medicine) department is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized Parkinson’s care, ensuring the best possible outcomes for every patient.