Parkinson’s: A Neurodegenerative Disease That Can Be Managed

“Not everything that shakes is Parkinson’s, and not all Parkinson’s patients shake,” Alejandra Guerrero Gómez.

Parkinson’s is a condition that primarily affects adults over the age of 60. It is a neurodegenerative disease, meaning it has no cure, and as the years go by, it impacts the motor and cognitive functions of the body, leading to loss of mobility in the limbs. Early treatment can help mitigate its effects.

It is commonly known as a disease that causes tremors in the body; however, this is not always the primary symptom.

How is Parkinson’s treated?

There are currently various medications available to reduce the disease’s impact on patients. Motor therapy is also an option; among these, tango dancing stands out. Its emphasis on coordination and fluidity of movement has been shown to significantly improve the motor skills of those who practice it.

Warning Signs of Parkinson’s

There are no lab tests or diagnostic imaging techniques to confirm it. Therefore, the main symptoms neurologists look for to diagnose Parkinson’s are:

  • Slowness of movement.
  • Stiffness in the limbs.
  • Partial or total loss of smell.
  • Asymmetric tremor, such as in one arm.
  • REM sleep disorder: vivid dreams accompanied by pronounced physical movements.

 

If any of these symptoms appear, schedule a neurology appointment rather than seeking emergency services.

 

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