Parkinson's disease treatment

Understanding Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition that primarily affects movement. It typically begins with symptoms such as tremor, muscle stiffness, and slowness of movement, often starting on one side of the body. Many individuals also develop a stooped posture. These symptoms occur due to a shortage of dopamine, a key chemical messenger, in an area of the brain called the basal ganglia, which plays a crucial role in coordinating movement.

As dopamine levels decrease, the brain’s ability to regulate and control movement becomes impaired. In addition to the hallmark motor symptoms, people with Parkinson’s may experience other issues, often before movement problems appear. These can include a reduced sense of smell, constipation, depression, sleep disturbances, and memory difficulties.

The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease remains unknown. While it can occasionally run in families, it is largely considered a sporadic condition. Interestingly, it is more common in non-smokers, though the reasons for this are not fully understood.

How We Treat Parkinson’s Disease

Accurate diagnosis is essential. Around 25% of people initially thought to have Parkinson’s may actually have another condition with similar symptoms, requiring a different approach to treatment.

Although there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s, various medications can significantly help manage the symptoms by targeting the dopamine-deficient nerve cells in the brain. The two primary categories of medication are:

•    Dopamine agonists, which mimic the action of dopamine and may carry fewer long-term side effects
•    Levodopa (L-dopa), which is often more effective in rapidly reducing symptoms but may lead to complications over time

Choosing the right treatment is a highly individual process and should be discussed with your specialist. Over time, most patients require adjustments to their medication regimen, including combining different treatments to maintain symptom control.

Maintaining physical activity is crucial for individuals with Parkinson’s. Staying active can help improve mobility, balance, and overall well-being.

Advanced Physiotherapy at Sulis Hospital

At Sulis Hospital, we are proud to offer a state-of-the-art rehabilitation and physiotherapy service that supports individuals living with Parkinson’s disease.

Our tailored physiotherapy programmes are designed to support mobility, strength, and confidence, helping you maintain independence and quality of life.