What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that affects the nervous system. It damages a small group of cells in the brain that gradually die off. Eventually, it affects your behaviour, movement, bodily functions, and mental health.
The causes of Parkinson’s disease are still unknown. It is thought that there may be a link with certain genetic abnormalities and harmful substances such as heavy metals and pesticides. At present, there are no cures for the disease itself, but there are treatments for its symptoms.
How do you recognize the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease mainly occurs in older people (65+), but younger people can also be affected. The symptoms vary from patient to patient. The most well-known symptoms include a stooped posture, tremors, slowed movements, and muscle stiffness. There are also many less well-known symptoms such as loss of smell, mood disorders, and bedwetting. The five stages of the disease are described on the website of the Flemish Parkinson’s League.
As you age, you may experience some of these symptoms, which can be normal. For example, constipation, tremors, or dizziness are common complaints in people over 65. Shaking hands may also be caused by excessive caffeine intake or smoking.
If symptoms persist and affect your daily life, it is best to consult your general practitioner. They can refer you to a specialist for a proper diagnosis.
How can you manage Parkinson’s disease yourself?
There are several ways to help control the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease:
- Stay physically active: even a 30-minute walk every day can make a big difference.
- Avoid falling asleep during the day to maintain a stable sleep rhythm.
- Ensure safety at home: keep floors clear of objects, organize your kitchen so items are within easy reach, and install handrails where extra support is needed.
- Use your medication carefully.
- Always seek personalized advice from your specialist.
How to support someone with Parkinson’s disease
A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease brings up many emotions for the patient, including fear but also relief. Living with Parkinson’s involves many limitations, starting with daily activities such as getting out of bed and dressing. It can also be difficult for family and friends.
The patient’s environment can help in several ways:
- Allow the patient to do as much as possible independently, even if you feel the urge to help. This helps preserve their abilities longer.
- Support the patient when they have difficulty walking.
- Give the patient enough time to express themselves; do not finish their sentences.
- Show that you are willing to help, but only offer help when asked.
- Do not get angry if the patient forgets something; their memory may no longer function as before.
- If you did not understand something, ask them to repeat it.
- If the patient speaks with difficulty, show that you understood by nodding.
- Encourage the patient to do what is still possible.
- Patience is essential, as movements are often slow and everything needs to be adjusted to their pace.
Important nuance: essential tremor
There is an important nuance in diagnosis. When someone starts shaking, most people immediately think of Parkinson’s disease. However, it may also be essential tremor. This condition is largely unknown to the general public, yet it is 8 times more common than Parkinson’s disease and is therefore the most common but least known neurological disorder.
Essential tremor is diagnosed by first excluding conditions such as Parkinson’s disease. It is therefore important that essential tremor receives sufficient attention.
People affected can find support in the Facebook group Essential Tremor Contact. You can also find more information on Tremorinfo.be.