Parkinson’s disease

Classic symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include tremors, slowness of movement, muscle stiffness, and balance problems. This is because the nerve cells specifically affected in Parkinson’s disease are those that control body movement.

Because Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder, it gradually becomes worse over time. New symptoms appear and existing symptoms slowly become more severe. This is due to the loss of an increased number of nerve cells in the brain. Despite this, Parkinson’s disease is not a terminal illness, and people can live for some 15-25 years from the point of diagnosis. It is a long-term (chronic) condition.

As the disease progresses, other non-motor symptoms may also begin to appear. These include mood changes such as depression, dementia, pain, and sleeping difficulties. All of these add considerably to the disease burden.

Patients
At present, there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but the symptoms can normally be treated effectively with drugs. The aim of treating Parkinson’s disease is to control and relieve symptoms, so the patient can continue to function and enjoy a reasonable quality of life for as long a possible.

Parkinson’s disease can be managed and treated in different ways. Drug therapy, surgery, exercise, diet, complementary therapies, emotional support, and strong relationships all play important roles.

Finding out more about Parkinson’s disease, relating to the new situation in life, and learning to accept new goals and challenges are just as important as practical management. In addition, focussing on what can be achieved rather than what can’t promotes a helpful and positive attitude.

Be open with family and friends about Parkinson’s disease and the effects that it may have. This will reduce possible misunderstandings, and relieve tension in social situations. A person with Parkinson’s disease should not be afraid to ask for help.

Carers
Caring for a person with Parkinson’s disease can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. But remember, the help of a carer is vital to the daily life and health of the person with Parkinson’s disease.

As a carer, it can be helpful to learn about Parkinson’s disease. Not only does it help to understand what the person with the disease is going through, it also helps the carer make sure the patient receives the most effective treatment for their symptoms.

One of the most important aspects of being a carer is communication – to communicate well with the person with the disease and to allow them to have their own “voice”. Moreover, the ability to share experiences and laugh together is essential for the person with Parkinson’s disease, and can be a great stress reliever for the carer as well.

The carer plays a vital role in the daily life of the person with Parkinson’s disease. But the welfare of the carer should not be forgotten either. Take good care of your own health and maintain interests outside the home. These include talking with friends, pursuing hobbies, attending regular meetings in a club or church, or visiting a Parkinson’s disease carer support group. And last but not least, it is important to seek help as soon as it is needed.