The Parkinson Primer

Parkinson's disease is nervous system disorder caused by damage to certain cells in the brain that affect the body's ability to move.

The disease got its name from the British doctor who first described the disease in 1817 – James Parkinson. If you have a family member with Parkinson's he or she is in good company. Noteworthy Parkinson's patients include the boxer Muhammad Ali, TV star Steve Allen, Michael J. Fox, Pope John Paul II, and actress Deborah Kerr.

Parkinson's is caused by lack of dopamine – a substance in the brain that helps control the body's movement and other functions. Parkinson's usually affects people over 60 although younger people may also develop the disorder.

PARKINSON SYMPTOMS

Early signs of Parkinson's include trembling hands, loss of sense of smell, stiffness, a shuffling gait and rigid muscles. These symptoms develop so gradually that your relative is not aware of them. Family members and friends may be the first to notice them.

As the disease progresses other symptoms appear:

• Difficulty sleeping, speaking or swallowing,

• Loss of bowel and bladder control or constipation.

• Illegible handwriting.

• Depression, restlessness, anxiety.

• Memory problems similar to those of Alzheimer's disease

• Poor balance; unsteady gait, slow walking

• Trembling hands, fingers, feet mouth or chin.

DIAGNOSING PARKINSON'S

There are no lab tests are currently available that can determine if your family member has Parkinson's or another disorder with the same symptoms. Doctors rely on physical and neurological examinations, medical history and symptoms to make the diagnosis. They may suggest additional tests to rule out other diseases with similar symptoms.

MANAGING SYMPTOMS

Although there is no cure for Parkinson's its symptoms can be controlled with a variety of medications, physical therapy, or surgery. The doctor will discuss the benefits and side effects available treatments and recommend the best course of action for managing your parent's symptoms. As a caregiver you can help your parent make changes in his lifestyle that can relieve Parkinson symptoms and keep him healthy and active for as long as possible.

Tips for caregivers:

• Prepare meals with lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grain cereals and breads and other high fiber foods to prevent constipation.

• Serve finger foods that don't require a knife and fork.

• Fill glasses halfway to avoid spills. Or serve drinks with a straw.

• Encourage your older relative to walk with care to avoid falls. Parkinson's can interfere with his sense of balance.

• Make getting dressed easier with slip-on pants and dresses. Choose clothes with Velcro fasteners or elastic waistbands.

• Ask your parent's doctor or pharmacist for easy-to-read instructions on how medications should be taken.

• Be sure your relative takes all medicines as prescribed. It often takes several weeks for these medications to take effect so be patient.

• Report any side effects to the doctor immediately.

GET THE FACTS ABOUT PARKINSON'S

Learn as much as you can about Parkinson's so you can help your parent understand the disease's symptoms and develop strategies for with them successfully.

CAREGIVING DAY BY DAY

Caring for someone with a progressive disease is often physically, emotionally, and mentally challenging. It can also be a rewarding experience as you and your relative devise creative ways to overcome the many obstacles presented by Parkinson's together.