What is Parkinson's Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement. It develops gradually, sometimes starting with a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand. But while a tremor may be the most well-known sign of Parkinson’s disease, the disorder also commonly causes stiffness or slowing of movement.
In the early stages of Parkinson’s disease, your face may show little or no expression, your arms may not swing when you walk, and your speech may become soft or slurred. Parkinson’s disease symptoms worsen as your condition progresses over time.
Although Parkinson’s disease can’t be cured, medications might significantly improve your symptoms. Occasionally, your doctor may suggest surgery to regulate certain regions of your brain and improve your symptoms.
Causes of Parkinson's Disease
In Parkinson’s disease, specific nerve cells (neurons) in the brain gradually break down or die. Many symptoms are due to a loss of neurons that produce a chemical messenger in your brain called dopamine. When dopamine levels decrease, it causes abnormal brain activity, leading to symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
The cause of Parkinson’s disease is still unknown. Researchers believe that both genetic and environmental factors play a role. Potential causes being researched include:
- Genetics – Some gene mutations appear to be linked to Parkinson’s disease. However, the percentage of cases related to genetics is small.
- Environmental triggers – Exposure to certain toxins or environmental factors may trigger Parkinson’s disease in people who have an inherited susceptibility.
- Lewy bodies – Lewy bodies are microscopic markers of Parkinson’s disease. They are clumps of specific substances within brain cells.
Research into the causes of Parkinson’s disease is ongoing. The mechanisms behind the development of Parkinson’s are still not well understood.
Common Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson’s disease signs and symptoms can be different for everyone. Early signs may be mild and go unnoticed. Symptoms often begin on one side of your body and usually remain worse on that side, even after symptoms begin to affect both sides.
Common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include:
- Tremor. A tremor, or shaking, usually begins in a limb, often your hand or fingers. You may rub your thumb and forefinger back and forth, known as a pill-rolling tremor.
- Slowed movement (bradykinesia). Over time, Parkinson’s disease may slow your movement, making simple tasks difficult and time-consuming.
- Rigid muscles. Muscle stiffness may occur in any part of your body.
- Impaired posture and balance. You may become stooped or have balance problems as a result of Parkinson’s disease.
As the disease progresses, additional symptoms can develop, including:
- Loss of automatic movements
- Speech changes
- Dementia
Treatments for Parkinson's Disease
There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease. However, medications, surgical treatment, and other therapies can often relieve some symptoms.
Medications. Medications such as levodopa help replace dopamine that’s lost due to Parkinson’s disease. Other medications help boost the effect of levodopa or manage non-movement symptoms.
Deep brain stimulation. In some people with advanced Parkinson’s disease, deep brain stimulation may be recommended. Electrodes are implanted into the brain and connected to a small electrical device placed under the skin near the collarbone that sends electrical pulses to the brain to help regulate movement.
Exercise and physical therapy: Regular exercise may help improve muscle strength, balance, and coordination, while physical therapy can help with gait training and muscle stretching.
Additional treatment options may be needed as the disease progresses, including at-home care, assisted living or nursing home care.
The Dual Battle: Mind and Body
Depression and Anxiety
In addition to the physical symptoms, Parkinson’s disease can have a significant impact on mental health. Up to 50% of people with Parkinson’s disease experience depression, ranging from mild to severe. Depression can cause fatigue, mood changes, and social withdrawal.
Anxiety is also common, affecting up to 40% of people with Parkinson’s. Anxiety can worsen physical symptoms and make it more challenging to cope with the changes brought on by the disease.
Both depression and anxiety can significantly reduce one’s quality of life. They may lead to social isolation and loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities. Without proper treatment, these mental health issues can spiral and have devastating effects.
Social Functioning Challenges
Parkinson’s can also impact social functioning in various ways. People may struggle with expression, vocal volume, word-finding, and other communication issues as the disease progresses. This can lead to difficulties in maintaining relationships.
Tremors, rigidity, and mobility challenges may cause embarrassment in social settings. Some people withdraw due to self-consciousness about their symptoms. The stigma surrounding the disease can also contribute to isolation.
In more advanced Parkinson’s, cognitive changes like memory difficulties and confusion may emerge, making social interactions more problematic. This can be frustrating and disheartening for the individual and their loved ones.
Addressing Mental Health Challenges
Innovative Therapies: CBT and Mindfulness
Alongside medication for physical symptoms, innovative therapies are emerging to address the mental health aspects of Parkinson’s disease. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps patients identify and modify negative thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress. CBT can alleviate depression and anxiety in some Parkinson’s patients.
Mindfulness-based approaches teach patients techniques to calm the mind and manage stress. Mindfulness has been shown to reduce depression, anxiety, and caregiver burden in people with Parkinson’s disease.
Support groups also empower those with Parkinson’s to share their experiences with others facing similar challenges. This social connection and mutual understanding can lift one’s mood and outlook.
Importance of Addressing Both Physical and Psychological Aspects
While the physical symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are often the most visible, the psychological aspects can be just as debilitating for patients and their loved ones. Depression, anxiety, social withdrawal, and other mental health issues directly reduce one’s quality of life.
Integrative treatment plans that address both the physical disease process as well as mental health challenges lead to better outcomes. Therapies like CBT and mindfulness, combined with social support and community engagement, enable those with Parkinson’s to enjoy life to the fullest extent possible.
By tackling Parkinson’s disease on both the medical and emotional fronts, patients and their families can be empowered to live full, meaningful lives despite the difficulties of this complex condition. While more progress is still needed, innovative treatment options combined with compassion and understanding
