Is Parkinson's disease hereditary?

Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
Updated on September 03, 2024
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Parkinson's disease is mainly divided into two types. One type is familial Parkinson's disease, which definitely has a clear genetic predisposition. This disease is caused by mutations in some genes that lead to disruptions in some internal environments and the accumulation of abnormal proteins, eventually causing the death of neurons. Since the disease is caused by genetic mutations, there is definitely a certain genetic predisposition, and reproductive counseling is necessary to prevent the birth of offspring with Parkinson's disease. Moreover, most cases of Parkinson's disease are sporadic, and these diseases may be related to acquired factors, such as long-term mental stress, excessive pressure, brain trauma, or cerebrovascular diseases in patients, which can all lead to Parkinson's disease. This type of disease is definitely not inherited, so there is no need to worry too much.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Can Parkinson's disease be cured?

Parkinson's disease is a degenerative disease of the nervous system that currently cannot be cured in medicine. It is important to choose the right treatment plan to avoid being deceived. Parkinson's disease is mainly caused by the irreversible death of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, resulting in clinical manifestations such as bradykinesia, muscular rigidity, and tremors in limbs. Other non-motor symptoms include reduced sense of smell, constipation, anxiety, depression, and orthostatic hypotension. Treatment primarily focuses on symptomatic relief, and it is not expected to achieve complete remission. Commonly used medications include levodopa, anticholinergics, and activators of levodopa and dopamine receptors. Symptoms in patients usually progressively worsen, and curing the disease is very difficult.

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How is Parkinson's disease cured?

The treatment of Parkinson's disease involves various aspects, and the principle of its treatment is not to aim for complete effectiveness but for prolonged and sustainable management. It is important not to be tempted by temporary symptom improvement and miss out on a sequential treatment that could last for many years. The treatment of Parkinson’s disease mainly includes the following aspects: The first aspect is the care of daily life, which is very important. It is necessary to install some very convenient facilities at home for the patient, such as installing some handles, using some higher chairs, etc., all of which help to improve the quality of life for the patient. The second aspect is pharmacotherapy. According to the patient's condition, appropriate anti-Parkinson's medication is selected, mainly including dopamine receptor agonists, COMT inhibitors, and some levodopa preparations. Adjusting medication is very complex and must be conducted under the guidance of a professional neurologist. In addition, attention should also be paid to the treatment of non-motor symptoms, such as treating the patient's constipation, depression, etc.

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Causes of Parkinson's Disease

The cause of Parkinson's disease is mainly due to a part of the brain called the brainstem, which has some black moles and clusters containing a large number of neurons that can produce dopamine. The death of these neurons in the substantia nigra of the midbrain, caused by various factors, leads to Parkinson's disease. This results in noticeable slowness of movement in the limbs, muscle rigidity, as well as tremors, and unstable walking and other clinical manifestations. The causes of the death of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra include genetic factors. Additionally, age is the biggest cause of the disease. Furthermore, dysfunctions in mitochondrial function, ischemia and hypoxia in the midbrain, certain traumas, and the use of drugs that deplete dopamine can all potentially cause Parkinson's disease.

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Neurology
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Where to treat Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease is a very common neurodegenerative disease in neurology. Therefore, if Parkinson's disease is suspected, treatment can be sought in the neurology department, which is available in most hospitals. Many neurologists have extensive experience in treating Parkinson's disease. The treatment primarily includes medication and surgery. Medication therapy mainly refers to the administration of anticholinergic drugs or dopamine receptor agonists, as well as preparations of Levodopa. These medications can help improve symptoms, such as reducing muscle rigidity and tremors. Surgical treatment mainly refers to deep brain stimulation, which is suitable for patients who have been clearly diagnosed with Parkinson's disease for over five years and whose primary symptom is tremor, without significant dementia.

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What foods should be eaten for Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease does not have any specific dietary restrictions, but the following aspects are recommended for patients: First, patients should consume more laxative vegetables and fruits, such as spinach, bananas, and celery, which help maintain the motility of the large intestine and promote bowel movements. Since many Parkinson's patients suffer from constipation, these foods can greatly improve their bowel movements and are recommended. Second, Parkinson's patients can also eat foods that nourish brain cells, such as pine nuts, walnuts, and pistachios. Third, patients may consume some plant oils, mainly olive oil, which can also play a good regulatory role. Fourth, Parkinson's patients should be cautious about the timing of protein intake in relation to their medication schedule, to avoid affecting the absorption of the medication.