Parkinsons Disease Explained.

Parkinsons disease is one of those diseases that no-one ever seems to think about until it somehow affects either them or their family. It's a slowly progressive disorder that affects the central nervous system and can devastate a person's life because of the accompanying problems it poses. Although the exact cause of the disease has to yet be determined, there is a huge amount of research being done to either control or cure this disease.

There is a lot of thought on what actually causes a person to develop this disease, though research already carried out seems to point to factors such as genetics, environmental factors, viral problems and toxins.

Parkinsons disease affects the central nervous system which is manifested by problems in muscle control and balance. Other symptoms include tremors, a slowing down of movements, rigidity, and a loss of reflexes, postural problems and speech functions. Other accompanying symptoms are depression, insomnia, dizziness, swallowing problems and sexual dysfunction.

The progression of the disease usually tends to vary from person to person, so when considering treatment to control it, doctors need to consider the person as an individual. A "blanket" approach to medical treatment is not an option to be considered when considering Parkinsons disease.

The main function of medication for Parkinsons is to ensure the symptoms are both controlled so the person can enjoy a reasonable quality of life, and the condition slowed down. Sometimes this can be quite difficult, and unfortunately an approach of trial and error has to be used before a patient's optimal treatment plan is recognised. Many therapies (Once adjusted), can minimise symptoms and assist in maximising the functions of the person.

One of the problems with Parkinsons disease is that it is very easy to misdiagnose as other diseases can mimic its symptoms. Very often it is a question of eliminating other causes of the symptoms being experienced before the definitive diagnosis of the disease can be made.

The usual treatment is more often than not a combination of both Levadopa and Carbidopa. These drugs are very effective in treating the chemical imbalances within the brain which cause the disease. Unfortunately even though they do tend to work very well in the initial stages of the disease, eventually their effectiveness is decreased and even though for a while the dosage can be adjusted successfully, eventually other treatments need to be considered.