What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative neurological condition that affects a tiny region of the brain called the substantia nigra. It is characterized by the unexplained disappearance of a certain number of nerve cells which secrete a substance (neurotransmitter) called dopamine.
However, dopamine plays an essential role in motor control, which explains the main symptoms of the disease: tremor at rest in two-thirds of cases, muscle stiffness, slowness or rarefaction of certain movements. This is what alerted actress Sylvie Joly: “Driving on a tarmac bike path, I couldn’t help but set foot on the ground twenty times. “Have you forgotten to know how to ride a bike?” asked his companions.
Dopamine is also involved in the regulation of mood, intellectual concentration and motivation. And its lack can be at the origin of a depressive state, difficulties of concentration, discouragement. Symptoms that the treatments correct well.
Parkinson’s disease: does it work?
Surgical treatment (installation of a pacemaker in the brain) is only rarely indicated. Instead, follow the lifestyle advice that your doctor will give you, respecting the schedules for taking medication and do not hesitate to consult again if you experience any discomfort. Doses may indeed need to be adjusted.
Don’t give up on sports
Physical activity will keep you fit and improve your motor skills and joint flexibility. The physiotherapist is there to develop a program specially adapted to people with Parkinson’s disease.
If you were athletic before your illness, continue to practice your sport by taking care of yourself. Otherwise, know that cycling, rowing, swimming, walking with great strides… everything is good. It’s up to everyone to find what they like and adapt their activities to their own pace.
Parkinson’s disease: how to improve your memory?
To fight against Parkinson’s disease, it is important to develop your attention span: train yourself every day to memorize dates, important facts that you have read in a newspaper or heard on television. Avoid withdrawing into yourself and accept invitations, even if it means mobilizing your family and friends from time to time to accompany you. And do not hesitate to call on a professional to reduce the discomfort caused by the disease.
Parkinson’s disease: can you drive?
Should you drive or not when you have Parkinson’s disease? The answer depends on the stage of your disease. Muscle rigidity, slowed movements and reflexes can affect your driving. It’s up to you to judge, with the help of your doctor.
If you feel tired, avoid taking the car or postpone your trip. Finally, to combat anxiety or stress, consider a method of relaxation or sophrology.
To know more about Parkinson’s disease with EurekaSanté, the consumer medical site published by VIDAL.