What Is Parkinson's Disease? - Deborah Byrne Psychology Services

Firstly I am not a medical doctor, the following is for informational purposes only. It may serve as a starting point if you, or a loved one, has recently been diagnosed. It should not replace any professional advice you have received.

The reason I include such blogs is because of my own experiences regarding diagnosis in the past. I received a diagnosis but no one told me what it meant or where to seek help. I felt like I was drowning and I don’t want anyone else to every experience that again.

What Is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease, commonly referred to as Parkinson’s, is a progressive neurological disorder. You may also hear the phrase Parkinsonism referred to. This is a collection of similar conditions the most common being Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s is also the second most common condition after Alzheimer’s to be diagnosed.

Parkinson’s disease is caused by a loss of dopamine. It is a progressive disease and the symptoms can be controlled by medication for years. But your doctor will prescribe the best treatment for you. It is considered a movement disorder but the symptoms include both motor and non-motor.

Parkinson’s is most commonly diagnosed in the over 60’s but some people do develop it earlier in the 40’s and 50’s. People younger than that are said to have Young Onset Parkinson’s or those under 20 are diagnosed with Juvenile Parkinson’s. So just because someone is under 60 doesn’t mean they cannot develop Parkinson’s.

Symptoms Parkinson’s Disease.

The symptoms usually develop gradually and can be mild at first. There are many symptoms associated with Parkinson’s and the rate, and severity, its development will differ for each individual.

3 Main Symptoms.

These can be referred to as Parkinsonism as there may be other causes other than Parkinson’s disease.

Tremors usually starting in the hand or arm.
Slowness of movement.
Muscle stiffness.

Other Symptoms.

Physical Symptoms.

Balance issues
Loss of smell
Nerve pain
Problems with urinating
Constipation
Sexual dysfunction
Excessive sweating.
Blurred vision.
Dizziness
Difficulties swallowing and excess saliva.
Insomnia.
Speech and writing changes.

Cognitive And Psychiatric Symptoms.

Depression.
Anxiety
Slight memory problems.
Dementia.

The 5 Stages of Parkinson’s Disease.

Stage One

People have mild symptoms that do not interfere with their daily life. Tremors and other movement symptoms may be noticeable and can occur on one side of the body only.

Stage Two

The symptoms become worse and are on both sides of the body. People can still lead independent lives but tasks may be more difficult to complete.

Stage Three

Movement becomes slower and people may experience a loss in balance. Therefore falls are more common. Daily activities are more impaired so people may require assistance.

Stage Four

The symptoms are severe, people may require a walker to walk and help with daily activities.

Stage Five

Walking and standing may be impossible so the person will require a wheelchair. They will also need twenty four hour care.

If you are at all concerned about symptoms please speak to your GP or main doctor.

The Causes Of Parkinson’s Disease

Many of the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are caused by the loss of nerve cells. Many of these nerve cells produce dopamine thus leading to impaired movement and other symptoms.

The cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown. Several factors thought to play a role, include: genetics, environmental triggers and the presence of Lewy Bodies. Other factors can include: age, a family history of the disease, exposure to toxins and gender, as more men than women get the disease.

Complications That Can Occur

Many of the complications of Parkinson’s disease can be treated. So do reach out for help from your doctor and specialist. Complications can include: thinking difficulties, dementia, depression, anxiety, as well as physical symptoms listed above.

Diagnosis Of Parkinson’s Disease.

No specific tests can show you have Parkinson’s disease. If your main doctor or GP suspects you have Parkinson’s they will refer you to a specialist for diagnosis and treatment.

Receiving a diagnosis of any kind can be difficult to come to terms with. Not just for the person but also their loved ones. Please reach out for counseling and join the national supports groups (see below) where you live.

Treatment For Parkinson’s Disease.

There is no known cure for the disease at present. But medications and other supportive therapies can help you cope with daily life. Your specialist will best advise on the best course of treatment for you.

Some supportive therapies will include: physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, dietician and counseling. Some people also find complementary therapies help their condition.

It is important to remember to keep well, eat healthily and exercise. Reach out and talk to your specialist and GP as soon as a problem arises. Get support from national bodies such as those listed below and from a therapist as needed.

Relationships can become strained as a result of any diagnosis. So talk to family and friends and let them know how they can help. Your partner may be anxious and frustrated, as may you, so please seek couples therapy sooner rather than later.

Support.

Remember you are allowed to ask for support. No one is an island. In fact I would strongly advise you to reach out for counseling if you, or a loved one, have recently received a diagnosis.