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Parkinson's disease
What is needed to diagnose Parkinson's disease?
The definitive diagnosis of Parkinson's disease primarily relies on the patient's medical history, clinical manifestations, and a thorough physical examination by a neurologist. If the onset of the disease is very slow, presenting with symptoms such as bradykinesia and tremors, and the neurologist observes heightened muscle tone and slow movements during the examination, a high suspicion of this disease is warranted. Additionally, certain auxiliary tests are necessary, commonly including: First, testing the patient's sense of smell is crucial, as a reduced sense of smell is very important in diagnosing Parkinson's disease. Second, some brain MRI scans are needed mainly to exclude some secondary Parkinson's syndromes. Third, a brain PET-CT scan can be performed to examine the functionality of the striatum. Furthermore, an ultrasound of the substantia nigra in the midbrain can also be conducted, which holds significant value in assisting the diagnosis.
What is good to eat for Parkinson's disease?
Patients with Parkinson's disease should pay special attention to their diet. It is recommended that the food eaten by Parkinson's patients mainly includes the following types: First, patients can eat more fresh cabbage, vegetables, celery, and fruits such as apples, oranges, bananas, and tangerines, because these fruits and vegetables help supplement some vitamins. Vitamins have an antioxidant stress effect, which may play a role in preventing the further development of Parkinson's disease. Additionally, these foods can supplement water, promote gastrointestinal motility, and alleviate constipation, which is beneficial for the constipation caused by Parkinson's disease. Second, people with Parkinson's disease can eat more walnuts or black sesame seeds, as well as some other nuts, as these foods also nourish brain cells. Moreover, patients with Parkinson's disease must ensure a balanced diet that includes a variety of grains, such as rice, millet, corn, and sorghum, which are all consumable.
Early symptoms of Parkinson's disease
The early symptoms of Parkinson's disease primarily include weakness of limbs on one side, resting tremors, and bradykinesia, among others. As the disease progresses, patients will display typical Parkinson's symptoms, including a shuffling gait, reduced facial expressions, decreased sense of smell, orthostatic hypotension, anxiety and depression, cognitive decline, constipation, frequent urination, etc. Therefore, when these symptoms appear, the possibility of Parkinson's disease should be considered. Patients need to promptly visit the neurology department of a hospital for complete testing such as routine blood tests, urinalysis, MRI of the skull, and if necessary, cerebrospinal fluid analysis through lumbar puncture to confirm the diagnosis. Once diagnosed, treatment with anti-Parkinson's medication should be started as soon as possible. Commonly used medications include Levodopa, dopamine receptor agonists, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, Vitamin B6, and more.
What department should you go to for Parkinson's disease?
Registration for Parkinson's disease should be in the Department of Neurology, as Parkinson's disease is a common disorder within neurology, so seeing a neurologist is sufficient. Parkinson's disease is a degenerative disease, primarily affecting middle-aged and elderly people. Although there is a genetic predisposition in some cases of Parkinson's disease, those with a family history might develop the disease in their youth, but sporadic cases generally occur in middle-aged or older individuals. Patients exhibit many motor symptoms that severely affect their quality of life, including muscle rigidity, limb tremors, and slowed movement, as well as other complications. Many neurologists are very familiar with Parkinson's disease and have seen many patients with it, possessing significant diagnostic and treatment experience. Therefore, consulting neurology is entirely appropriate.
Early symptoms of Parkinson's disease
Parkinson's disease begins inconspicuously and progresses gradually. There are two main categories of symptoms in Parkinson's disease: motor symptoms and non-motor symptoms. In the early stages of the disease, one can appear normal, or may experience motor symptoms like bradykinesia or rigidity, often starting asymmetrically. Symptoms commonly begin on one side of the upper limbs, and less frequently start from the lower limbs, eventually spreading to the limbs on the other side. Non-motor symptoms can occur at various stages of Parkinson's disease, including the pre-motor phase, such as loss of smell, sleep disturbances, constipation, depression, and more.
What should be avoided in the diet for Parkinson's disease?
For patients with Parkinson's disease, we advocate comprehensive treatment and full-course management. Drug treatment is the core treatment method, while surgical treatment can supplement drug therapy. Physical rehabilitation and psychological therapy should also be conducted. What should patients with Parkinson's disease avoid eating? Generally, patients with Parkinson's disease are prone to constipation. Therefore, we should avoid consuming spicy and greasy foods that may lead to constipation, and try to eat vegetables and fruits to keep the bowel movements regular.
What is the best way to exercise for Parkinson's disease?
Patients with Parkinson's disease should undergo comprehensive treatment and full management. Drug treatment is the core treatment plan, but it is also necessary to include physical rehabilitation and psychological therapy. For physical therapy, patients should be encouraged to exercise more, as this can help improve symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. The type and intensity of exercise should be chosen based on the patient's motor symptoms. Tai Chi, jogging, brisk walking, and aerobics are all suitable forms of exercise, and it is advisable to exercise four times a week, with each session lasting about 30 minutes. Evidence has shown that Tai Chi can improve patients' balance disorders, and long-term persistence in exercise can help improve their quality of life.
Is Parkinson's disease scary?
Parkinson's disease is not a terrifying disease, as its onset is relatively hidden and slow, with gradual progression. Many patients can significantly improve their symptoms, prolong their lives, and enhance their quality of life through rehabilitation training and medication. However, there is no effective cure for Parkinson's disease at this time; current treatments only relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Patients with Parkinson's should not be afraid and must regularly visit neurology outpatient clinics for follow-up. Neurologists will provide appropriate medications for Parkinson’s and guide the daily life of patients. Moreover, patients must prevent falls. Parkinson's is not a terrifying disease; what is dangerous is arbitrarily stopping or reducing medication without listening to the doctor's advice. (Note: This answer is for reference only, medication should be taken under the guidance of a professional physician, and medications should not be taken blindly.)
What is Parkinson's disease gait?
Patients with Parkinson's disease have a distinctive gait; typically, their torso leans forward, and their arms do not move much. When they walk, they exhibit a hurried gait with short, scurrying steps. That is, they take small steps that progressively get faster and faster, making stopping very difficult when they reach their destination. This is a typical scenario often referred to as a "scampering gait." Many experienced doctors can frame a preliminary diagnosis of Parkinson's disease just by observing the patient’s walk. Parkinson's disease also leads to unstable posture and gait, increasing the risk of falls and fractures. Therefore, it's important to take precautions at home by installing handrails to assist the patient in standing and walking, preventing accidental injuries.
What are the symptoms of Parkinson's disease?
Parkinson's disease is a relatively common disease among the elderly, causing significant inconveniences in their daily lives and making it difficult for them to move. Moreover, this disease progressively worsens. Overall, the symptoms of Parkinson's disease primarily include noticeable movement slowness; patients perform tasks very slowly, such as wrapping dumplings or rolling dumpling wrappers, which are done clumsily and slowly. They also dress, turn over in bed, and tie shoelaces very slowly. Additionally, there are evident symptoms such as resting tremors and muscle rigidity. Some people may experience a panicked gait, rushing forward and unable to control their steps. Patients might also experience severe constipation, a reduced sense of smell, and some have sensory abnormalities in their limbs.