Nellore: Slow step, a softer voice, a shaky hand—these are subtle signs often dismissed as part of aging. But they may be the earliest whispers of Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, balance and overall quality of life.“Parkinson’s doesn’t announce its arrival with a bang, it whispers. If people listen early, they can improve their quality of life,” pointed out Dr. Bindu Menon, senior neurologist at Apollo Speciality Hospitals, Nellore, in the wake of World Parkinson’s Day on April 11. Caused due to depletion of dopamine—the chemical that coordinates body movement—Parkinson’s manifests through tremors, stiffness, slowness, imbalance, and subtle changes in handwriting or speech. Often, non-motor symptoms, such as depression, constipation, sleep issues and cognitive changes, precede the diagnosis by years. “Early detection is everything,” stresses Dr. Menon, “it opens the door to better treatment outcomes and helps patients retain their independence for longer.” Treatment is lifelong and multi-disciplinary, involving medications to restore dopamine levels, physiotherapy, speech and occupational therapy. In some cases, there are surgical options like Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). Missing even a single dose of medication can lead to debilitating “off” periods of fatigue and immobility. For patients with advanced Parkinson’s, who experience severe motor fluctuations or sudden “off” periods when regular medications stop working, Apomorphine has emerged as a significant treatment option. This potent dopamine agonist offers quick relief through small injections under the skin. Or, via continuous infusion, it provides consistent symptom control. This medication is beneficial to those who are ineligible or unwilling to undergo brain surgery like DBS. Further, because it often requires daily injections, it may not suit everyone. Parkinson’s management hinges on strong emotional and familial support. “Family is the backbone,” Dr. Menon emphasises, “their silent strength helps patients fight every single day.” She further advocates a healthy diet, adequate hydration and mental well-being. Though there is no known way to prevent Parkinson’s, research suggests that a healthy lifestyle may reduce risk. Regular physical activity enhances movement, mood and brain function. A Mediterranean diet—featuring fresh produce, whole grains, legumes, omega-3-rich foods and antioxidants—can guard against neurodegeneration. Environmental exposure also plays a role. Toxins like pesticides (for example paraquat), heavy metals (lead / copper / nickel), and industrial pollutants in air and water have been linked to increased risk of Parkinson’s. To support patients and caregivers, Dr. Menon has launched a Nellore chapter of the Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorder Society (PDMDS), offering more than 350 free online sessions focused on education, therapy and emotional support. “Parkinson’s may not be curable,” the neurologist concludes, “but with awareness, care and community, it is absolutely manageable.”
Source link
