Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that leads to shaking, stiffness,
and difficulty with walking, balance, and coordination. Parkinson’s
symptoms usually begin gradually and get worse over time. As the disease
progresses, people may have difficulty walking and talking.
signs and symptoms
Tremors
Slowed movement (bradykinesia)
Rigid muscles
Impaired posture and balance
Loss of automatic movements
Speech changes.
What causes Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease occurs when nerve cells (neurons) in an
area of the brain called the substantia nigra become impaired
or die. These cells normally produce dopamine, a chemical
(neurotransmitter) that helps the cells of the brain communicate
(transmits signals, “messages,” between areas in the brain).
When these nerve cells become impaired or die, they produce
less dopamine. Dopamine is especially important for the
operation of another area of the brain called the basal ganglia.
This area of the brain is responsible for organizing the brain’s
commands for body movement. The loss of dopamine causes
the movement symptoms seen in people with Parkinson’s
disease.
People with Parkinson’s disease also lose another
neurotransmitter called norepinephrine. This chemical is
needed for proper functioning of the sympathetic nervous
system. This system controls some of the body’s autonomic
functions such as digestion, heart rate, blood pressure and
breathing. Loss of norepinephrine causes some of the non-
movement-related symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Scientists aren’t sure what causes the neurons that produce
these neurotransmitter chemicals to die.
Controlling Parkinson’s symptoms?
Exercise: Exercise helps improve muscle strength, balance,
coordination, flexibility, and tremor. It is also strongly believed to
improve memory, thinking and reduce the risk of falls and
decrease anxiety and depression.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet: This is not only good for your
general health but can ease some of the non-movement related
symptoms of Parkinson’s, such as constipation. Eating foods high
in fiber in particular can relieve constipation. The Mediterranean
diet is one example of a healthy diet.
Preventing falls and maintaining balance: Falls are a frequent
complication of Parkinson’s. While you can do many things to
reduce your risk of falling, the two most important are:
1) to work with your doctor to ensure that your treatments —
whether medicines or deep brain stimulation — are optimal; and
2) to consult with a physical therapist who can assess your
walking and balance. The physical therapist is the expert when it
comes to recommending assistive devices or exercise to improve
safety and preventing falls.
How do I prevent falls
Floors: Remove all loose wires, cords, and throw rugs.
Minimize clutter. Make sure rugs are anchored and smooth.
Keep furniture in its usual place.
Bathroom: Install grab bars and non-skid tape in the tub or
shower. Use non-skid bath mats on the floor or install wall-
to-wall carpeting.
Lighting: Make sure halls, stairways, and entrances are
well-lit. Install a night light in your bathroom or hallway and
staircase. Turn lights on if you get up in the middle of the
night. Make sure lamps or light switches are within reach of
the bed if you have to get up during the night.
Kitchen: Install non-skid rubber mats near the sink and
stove. Clean spills immediately.
Stairs: Make sure treads, rails, and rugs are secure. Install a
rail on both sides of the stairs. If stairs are a threat, it might
be helpful to arrange most of your activities on the lower
level to reduce the number of times you must climb the
stairs.
Entrances and doorways: Install metal handles on the
walls adjacent to the doorknobs of all doors to make it more
secure as you travel through the doorway.
tips to help prevent fall
Keep at least one hand free at all times. Try using a
backpack or fanny pack to hold things rather than carrying
them in your hands. Never carry objects in both hands when
walking as this interferes with keeping your balance.
Attempt to swing both arms from front to back while walking.
This might require a conscious effort if Parkinson’s disease
has diminished your movement. It will, however, help you to
maintain balance and posture, and reduce falls.
Consciously lift your feet off of the ground when walking.
Shuffling and dragging of the feet is a common culprit in
losing your balance.
When trying to navigate turns, use a “U” technique of facing
forward and making a wide turn, rather than pivoting sharply.
Try to stand with your feet shoulder-length apart. When your
feet are close together for any length of time, you increase
your risk of losing your balance and falling.
Do one thing at a time. Don’t try to walk and accomplish
another task, such as reading or looking around. The
decrease in your automatic reflexes complicates motor
function, so the less distraction, the better.
Do not wear rubber or gripping soled shoes–they might
“catch” on the floor and cause tripping.
Move slowly when changing positions. Use deliberate,
concentrated movements and, if needed, use a grab bar or
walking aid. Count 15 seconds between each movement.
For example, when rising from a seated position, wait 15
seconds after standing to begin walking.
If you become “frozen,” visualize stepping over an imaginary
object, or have someone place his or her foot in front of
yours to step over. Try not to have a caregiver or family
member “pull” you–this might throw you off balance and
even prolong the episode.
If balance is a continuous problem, you might want to
consider a walking aid such as a cane, walking stick, or
walker. Once you’ve mastered walking with help, you might
be ready to try it on your own again.
Maintaining the Disorders.
Regular Doctors consultation
Healthy and fiber diet
Regular exercise and physio advice for prevent fall.
Self-confidents
