Parkinson's Disease: A disease with an unknown cause
Parkinson’s is known as a degenerative disease. It occurs when the neurons that control movement slowly and gradually die.
Causes
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) can be explained by the loss of cells located in the part of the brain that produces dopamine, a chemical involved in controlling movement.
The exact causes of PD remain unknown at this time. However, according to certain theories, PD might be the result of a combination of two main factors:
- Family history
- Environment (some scientists believe that those significantly exposed to herbicides or pesticides are more at risk of developing PD).
Other factors, such as certain medications, cranial trauma or other neurological disorders, are also under study.
Symptoms
While the first symptoms of PD normally appear around age 60, they can occur at any age.
Among a large majority of those affected, PD first appears as hand tremors. These tremors are generally more prevalent at rest and grow worse with fatigue and stress.
Here are a few other symptoms that can be observed as the disease progresses:
- Slowness of movement
- Generalized muscle stiffness
- Problems with posture and balance
- Decreased arm swing
- Shuffling
- Lack of facial expression
- Constipation
- Difficulty swallowing
- Weakened voice volume
- Feelings of depression and anxiety
- Excessive salivation.
Treatment
There is currently no medication that can cure Parkinson’s disease. However, medication can reduce some of the symptoms and improve the person’s quality of life. It is essential for the dosage of these drugs to be carefully adjusted based on the progression of the disease.
There are four main categories of medications:
- Dopamine precursors (levodopa), which convert into dopamine in the brain
- Dopamine antagonists, which mimic the effects of dopamine (bromocriptine, pergolide, pramipexole, ropinirole)
- Inhibitors of dopamine degradation, which prevent existing dopamine from being destroyed
- Anticholinergics, which reduce the symptoms caused by the lack of dopamine, including tremors (benzotropine, trihexyphénidyle).
Amantadine hydrochloride, which helps to release dopamine, also constitutes a treatment option, as does surgery and neurological simulation with an electrode.
The importance of a healthy lifestyle
A regular exercise program and physical therapy can help stave off loss of motor control. Keeping active and eating well are other key ways to manage PD.
In-store health services
If you have questions about PD and how to care for a person with this disease, don’t hesitate to talk to your pharmacist. He’s there to help!
There are many professional pharmacy services available to help you manage Parkinson’s disease:
The pharmacy services presented in this section are offered by pharmacist owners who are affiliated with Uniprix. The pharmacists are solely responsible for the professional activities carried out during the practice of pharmacy. These services are offered in participating pharmacies only. Certain fees and conditions may apply.
* The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide complete information on the subject matter or to replace the advice of a health professional. This information does not constitute medical consultation, diagnosis or opinion and should not be interpreted as such. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions about your health, medications or treatment.