November 1, 2022 By Dr. Vijendra Kumar

How Parkinson’s disease affects the brain - and what you can do about it

Most people know that Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that affects movement, but few know what it actually is. Dr. VK Jain, a well-known neurosurgeon in India, explains that Parkinson’s is caused by the loss of nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine. This chemical helps to regulate movement and balance. When these cells die, the brain can no longer send the correct signals to the muscles, leading to tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but there are treatments available that can help improve quality of life.

What are the symptoms of Parkinson's disease?

The most common symptoms are:

• Tremor
• Rigidity
• Slowness of movement
• Difficulty with balance

These symptoms typically develop gradually and worsen over time. Other common symptoms include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Apathy
• Sleep problems
• Constipation
• Fatigue

How is Parkinson's disease diagnosed?

There is no one test to diagnose Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and neurological testing. There is no one test that can definitively diagnose Parkinson's, so doctors often use a variety of tests to rule out other conditions and confirm the diagnosis. MRI and PET scans may be used to look for changes in the brain that are characteristic of Parkinson's.

What are the treatments for Parkinson's disease?

There is no one definitive answer to this question as the treatments for Parkinson's disease (PD) will vary depending on the individual case. In general, however, PD patients can expect to receive a combination of medication and surgery as treatment options.

Medication is typically the first line of defense against PD, and there are a variety of different drugs that can be used to manage the symptoms of the disease. However, as PD progresses, many patients find that medication becomes less effective at controlling their symptoms. This is when surgery may be considered as an option.

There are a few different types of surgery that have been shown to be effective in treating PD, and which type is best for a particular patient will depend on the individual case.

One such effective surgery is Deep brain stimulation (DBS). DBS is a surgical procedure that involves implantation of a medical device called a brain pacemaker, which sends electrical impulses to specific areas in the brain. DBS is used to treat a variety of neurological conditions, including Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, dystonia, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

DBS is considered a safe and effective treatment option for many patients with neurological conditions who have not responded well to other treatments. The risks and side effects of DBS are typically mild and reversible.

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with a neurological condition, talk to an expert neurosurgeon in India like Dr. VK Jain, who has a rich experience in treating such diseases.

Can Parkinson's disease be prevented?

There is no certain answer, but there are some things that may help lower your risk.

Aging is the biggest risk factor for Parkinson's disease. This disease is more common in people over age group of 60. So, one way to lower your risk is to stay healthy and active as you age.

Exercise is also thought to be protective against Parkinson's disease. Studies have found that people who exercise regularly have a lower risk of the disease. So, make sure to get plenty of exercise throughout your life.

In conclusion, Parkinson's disease is a progressive disorder that affects the brain and central nervous system. The cause of Parkinson's is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There is no cure for Parkinson's, but there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms. If you or someone you know has Parkinson's disease, be sure to talk to a doctor about the best course of treatment.

Dr. VK Jain is the most trusted neurosurgeon in India for Parkinson's disease. He has been treating patients with this condition for over 41 years. Dr. Jain is an expert in the use of these treatments, and has helped many patients manage their condition and improve their lives. Consult him today if you or your loved one is suffering from Parkinson's disease.