Disease of the nervous system, in which certain areas of the brain and its cells (neurons) slowly degenerate.
This disease affects approximately 1% of the population over the age of 65, affecting both sexes equally.
The first symptoms of Parkinson’ disease begin to show at the age of around 50-60.
The disease is progressive, and manifests differently in different people.
Symptoms
Stiffness: Stiffness in the limbs, upper and lower body, trunk and neck as well.
Tremors: Usually starts by affecting movement of the hand/s.
It is slow and of variable amplitude.
It also affects movement in relation to other parts of the body, including the feet, jaw, lips and tongue.
Bradykinesis (Slowness): Slowness, in term of movements, is a cardinal symptom of Parkinson’s disease.
Disturbance of posture and equilibrium: Most people, affected by this disease, develop a disturbance in terms of posture, in the form of a forward stoop.
People affected by this disease are unable to maintain balance and tend to fall frequently.
Sense of weakness
Change in the quality of voice: It so happens that people affected by this disease find that their voice tends to change.
People suffering from this disease also, at times, tend to repeat the same word over and over again.
Change in handwriting: It is a common symptom of those suffering from Parkinson’s disease, especially if it starts in the right hand.
The handwriting also tends to become small and the speed of writing goes down.
Issues related to walking: Most people affected by this disease tend to drag their feet while walking.
While trying to walk, most of the said people tend to fall, due to lack of coordination.
How can you help someone in your family who suffers from Parkinson’s disease?
Allow the patient to be independent.
Let the patient bathe, dress up and do all other activities independently (make sure the patient doesn’t injure himself/herself in the process of doing these activities).
Make sure that the patient is persuaded to exercise on a daily basis.
No special diet required for those suffering from this disease.
However, having said that, it is advisable for such people to take a balanced diet, consisting of a lot of fresh fruits, vegetables and plenty of water.
Due to issues of inactivity, constipation is a common problem faced by those suffering from this disease so ensure healthy eating and laxatives if necessary.
Exercise is a must for those suffering from this disease. If exercise isn’t a daily feature, the joints tend to become stiff, painful and frozen.Exercise also helps improve the functioning of the heart, lungs and kidneys, apart from giving an overall feeling of well-being. People suffering from this disease are advised not to undertake vigorous exercise, and hence, walking regularly is advised.
