Understanding Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is a progressive disorder affecting nerve cells in the brain responsible for producing dopamine. Key symptoms include tremor (shaking), bradykinesia (slowness of movement), rigidity (stiffness), and postural instability (balance problems). Non-motor symptoms like cognitive changes, mood disorders, and sleep problems can also occur.

Other Common Movement Disorders

• Essential Tremor: Characterized by involuntary shaking, most often in the hands, during voluntary movements.
• Dystonia: Causes involuntary muscle contractions leading to twisting, repetitive movements, or abnormal postures.
• Huntington's Disease: An inherited condition causing uncontrolled movements, cognitive decline, and psychiatric issues.
• Tourette Syndrome: Involves repetitive, involuntary movements and vocalizations (tics).
• Ataxia: Affects coordination, balance, and speech.

Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches

• Diagnosis: Based on detailed medical history, neurological examination. Imaging (MRI) or DaTscan may be used to support diagnosis or rule out other conditions.
• Treatment for Parkinson's Disease: Medications (Levodopa, dopamine agonists), physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery for advanced cases.
• Treatment for Other Movement Disorders: Varies by condition. Includes medications (beta-blockers for tremor, anticholinergics for dystonia), Botulinum Toxin injections for dystonia and spasticity, physical therapy, and DBS for select conditions.

When to See a Neurologist

If you experience involuntary movements, tremors, stiffness, slowness, balance problems, or changes in gait, consult a neurologist for evaluation. Early diagnosis and management can significantly improve quality of life.