Parkinson’s disease is considered to be an elder illness, but Rahul (name changed) was diagnosed with it when he was just 34. His symptoms began with him not being able to unlock his door or type correctly on his computer. As they increased, he developed a tremor while driving and had a car accident.
Parkinson’s is a common neurodegenerative disease. Over 10 million people are living with the disease globally. Even though its prevalence in India is less as compared to other countries, India’s total burden is quite high due to the huge population.
As we observed World Parkinson’s Day, it is important to educate people about early detection, management and the positive impact exercise can have on overall wellness. There is no standardised test to diagnose Parkinson’s disease. The only way is clinical information provided by patients and results from neurological tests. Since this disease is considered to affect only older people, many of our diagnoses are of people who have had the disease for some years. What we do not realise is that signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s can begin at a much younger age. Those experiencing struggles in movement or coordination should get tested. Even though there is no cure, symptoms can be managed with medication and even exercise.
Parkinson's is a chronic and progressive movement disorder, which means that the symptoms continue to worsen over time. It involves the malfunction and death of vital neurons (nerve cells) in one section of the brain. This malfunction produces the chemical, dopamine, which sends messages to that part of the brain which controls the body’s movement and co-ordination. As the disease progresses, the amount of dopamine produced decreases rendering people unable to control normal movements. The cause remains unknown, and currently has no cure, but medication and surgery have proven to manage its symptoms.
Tremors in the limbs and face, slowness of movement, rigidity of limbs and trunk, and impaired balance and co-ordination are some symptoms. Small handwriting, loss of smell, trouble sleeping, constipation, dizziness or fainting are also associated with the disease.
Even though Parkinson’s affects a person’s ability to move, exercise helps keep muscles strong, increases flexibility and mobility. Progression of the disease cannot be stopped, but exercise can help prevent stiffening of joints and improves balance. The type of exercise that works best depends on a patient’s symptoms, fitness level, and overall health. Generally, exercises that stretch the limbs through the full range of motion are encouraged.
We encourage patients to exercise regularly to keep their limbs functioning properly. The movement of joints allows oxygen into the muscles strengthening them. A minimum of 30 minutes a day has proven to be beneficial for patients. We work closely with physical therapists to create personal exercise programmes for all our patients depending on their requirements. Exercise not only improves a person’s well-being but also helps reduce depression or anxiety.
For people with Parkinson’s, moving around does not come as naturally as it once did. In order to increase your confidence moving, you have to move.
Tips to keep in mind while exercising:
(The writer is Dr Hetal Parekh Neurologist, Columbia Asia Hospital Ahmedabad )