It's no surprise that Parkinson's disease (PD) and anxiety go hand-in-hand. However, the level of anxiety in a person with PD does not always correspond with their degree of illness or disability. It's easy to assume that anxiety is just another offshoot of Parkinson's disease and a result of the emotional challenges of a long-term illness. However, Parkinson's disease anxiety is not just feeling nervous or unsure about your condition; it is a clinical syndrome that deserves proper recognition and treatment.

Parkinson’s Disease and Anxiety: Why Does Anxiety Happen?

People with Parkinson's disease experience a number of different symptoms. As well as tremor, rigidity and slow movement, many PD patients feel depressed or anxious and struggle with the emotional impact of their illness.

Around 31% of people with Parkinson’s disease will experience significant symptoms of anxiety. Those with early-onset Parkinson’s (PD diagnosed before the age of 60) are thought to have a higher risk of developing anxiety than older patients. It’s unclear whether this occurs due to chemical changes in the brain, Parkinson's medication side-effects or a combination of social, environmental and genetic factors, though scientists are devoting more research to this area.

According to Richard Brown, Professor of Neuropsychology and Clinical Neuroscience at King’s College London:

“Anxiety, like all behavior and emotion, is ultimately controlled by our brain. Anxiety is related to a complex set of brain areas and chemicals, many of which are affected in Parkinson’s.”

There is no cure-all treatment for anxiety stemming from Parkinson's disease because the cause of anxiety in PD is difficult to determine. If you experience anxiety with Parkinson's disease, your doctor will suggest appropriate treatment that takes all of your PD symptoms (motor and non-motor) into account.

What are the Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease Anxiety?

Depression and anxiety with or without Parkinson's disease can be debilitating. You may suffer from a "loop" of anxious thoughts about your illness or the future, or you may find yourself experiencing panic attacks or feeling afraid to go outside. You may also have a negative view of the world and your place in it.

While it's normal to feel some degree of worry when you are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, persistent anxiety that doesn't go away when you relax may require treatment. Here are some of the most common Parkinson's disease and anxiety symptoms:

• Constant feelings of worry or dread
• Panic attacks characterized by heart palpitations, sweating, nausea and lightheadedness
• Feeling out of control or helpless
• Long, intense periods of unease
• Feeling unsafe for in normal situations
• Wanting to isolate yourself or being afraid to leave the house
• Avoiding certain situations because they trigger anxiety

Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease Anxiety and Panic Attacks

Depending on the severity of your anxiety and other health factors, your doctor may suggest one or more of the following treatment options:

• Relaxation and breathing exercises
• Support groups for Parkinson’s disease
• Anti-anxiety medications
• Therapy, such as one-to-one counseling or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Withdrawal of PD medications if anxiety is a side-effect

Although anxiety can be a major struggle for those with Parkinson’s disease, proper treatment can make everything feel a lot more manageable. Consult your doctor if you are experiencing Parkinson's disease and anxiety, even if your anxiety symptoms were present before your PD diagnosis.

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Parkinson's disease and sex is a complicated topic. No matter your age, gender or relationship status, sex plays a significant part in many people's lives. Sexual desire does not go away with a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, and most people are perfectly able to continue having intimate relationships. However, you may experience changes to your libido or physical ability during sex. As with all Parkinsonian symptoms, it helps to be prepared so that you're aware of your options. With this in mind, here's what to expect from Parkinson's disease and sex.

Parkinson’s Disease and Sex: What You Need to Know

There is no reason why you cannot continue to have a healthy sex life with Parkinson's disease. However, studies suggest that around 70 to 80% of those with PD experience sexual dysfunction. These common sexual problems are believed to result from Parkinson's medication side-effects and psychological issues.

Men and women experience different issues when it comes to Parkinson’s disease and sex. In men, common problems include erectile dysfunction, lower sex drive, premature ejaculation and inability to orgasm. Women may experience pain during intercourse, as well as lack of sexual arousal, inability to orgasm and reduced lubrication.

In addition, the motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease can create physical challenges during sex. Many people with PD experience slowed movement (Bradykinesia) and rigidity (stiffness) that makes any movement difficult. Tremors and involuntary movement can also occur during sexual activity.

How Parkinson’s Affects the Libido

Parkinson’s disease and the sex drive is a complicated issue. Decreased libido (or lack of sexual drive) is a common complaint in patients with Parkinson’s disease. However, certain PD medications – particularly dopamine agonists – can actually cause an increased sex drive in men and women, known as hypersexuality or sex addiction.

If this happens, and it is out of character for you, it is important to tell your doctor. Other side-effects of PD medications include psychosis and other impulsive behavior such as pathological gambling or heavy drinking. If you experience any of these symptoms, your doctor will most likely change your medication and monitor your mental health.

Tips for A Better Sex Life with Parkinson’s Disease

• Communicate: Be open with your partner about your feelings and discuss your physical needs. If the topic of sex causes upset or arguments, it might be worth seeing a sex therapist.
• Consider changing your medication: If your medication is having an impact on your sex life, talk to your doctor about an alternative treatment. Your sex life is important, so it should be given as much attention and care as your general health and wellbeing.
• Be open with your doctor: Don't be afraid to talk about sex with your doctor – that's what your healthcare team is there for, and they will have dealt with these types of concerns before.
• Deal with fatigue and depression: Depression and fatigue can negatively impact your sex life, so look at ways of treating these symptoms. A combination of therapy and antidepressant medications may help, so talk to your doctor.

Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease and Sex Issues

Treatment for erectile dysfunction in men might include medications like Viagra, as well as physical or psychological therapy. In some cases, surgical implants may also be used. Women’s sexual health in Parkinson’s is slightly more complex due to their hormonal makeup.

Treatment options for women are somewhat restricted, but they include adding lubrication and seeing a therapist. Many women find timing sex during their ON periods (where their medication works well at controlling their symptoms) to be helpful.

In terms of reproductive health, there is no evidence to suggest that Parkinson's disease causes problems with pregnancy – although there have been no studies into the safety of PD medication during pregnancy.

Parkinson’s disease and sex can be challenging, but there are plenty of treatments and solutions that can work for both men and women. It’s important to communicate with your partner and talk through any feelings you might be experiencing, especially if you’re struggling with body image or confidence issues. Navigating sex during Parkinson’s disease can be difficult for partners, too, so remember to keep the dialogue open in your relationship.

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Coping with Parkinson’s disease is challenging for many reasons. Alongside the physical symptoms of PD and the changes your body goes through, the diagnosis of a chronic, progressive illness can take its toll emotionally. There is also a clear link between Parkinson’s disease and mental health issues like depression and anxiety – not to mention sleep problems. For all of these reasons, a reliable support system is crucial during Parkinson’s disease, but you may also wish to learn some coping strategies of your own. Here are some tips for coping with Parkinson’s disease.

Coping with Parkinson’s Disease: Why It’s So Difficult

Parkinson's disease is a progressive illness for which there is currently no cure. Although most people continue to live long and fulfilling lives with PD, it can still be hard to hear that you are not going to get better.

When you are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, your doctor will tell you what to expect regarding symptoms, progression and treatment. However, Parkinson's is often described as a "bespoke" illness because it presents differently in every patient. Some people live well for decades before their symptoms become significant, while others progress from stages 1 to 5 in a matter of months. The majority of people with PD need full-time care when they reach end-stage Parkinson's.

For many people, the signs of PD appear gradually, so you may have a while to get used to the idea of a Parkinson’s diagnosis. Others may experience sleep problems or changes in mood long before motor symptoms begin; for these people, a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease may come as a shock. Either way, this news can take its toll on your emotions, and you may be worried about how you will cope in the future.

Tips for Coping with Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms

Parkinson's disease symptoms can be challenging to live with at first. Here are some tips to help you cope:

Take it one day at a time

It's best to tackle Parkinson's disease one day at a time. Although making plans for the future is a good idea as the disease progresses, there is no use worrying endlessly about the long-term effects of PD. All you have now are your current symptoms, and you can only deal with what's in front of you.

Keep a symptoms diary

Record any emotional and physical symptoms so you can give your doctor an accurate picture of your condition. Write down physical symptoms such as tremor, slowed movement or rigidity, as well as mental health changes like depression, anxiety or hallucinations. If you experience problems with memory or concentration, ask a trusted caregiver or loved one to jot things down.

Ask questions

Be an active participant in your healthcare. Write down any questions you want to ask your doctor between visits, and don't be afraid to ask for alternative medications or treatment if you don't think your current plan is working for you.

Practice acceptance

If you have just been told you have Parkinson's disease, you may find it difficult to come to terms with the diagnosis. Over time, however, you may find it helpful to work through any feelings of anger and resentment and practice acceptance. Exercises like meditation and mindfulness can relieve stress while seeing a therapist can help you work through your feelings.

“Acceptance doesn’t mean resignation; it means understanding that something is what it is and that there’s got to be a way through it.” ― Michael J. Fox

How to Cope with Parkinson’s Disease at Home

You may wish to make practical arrangements to help you feel more in control of your disease. Here are some tips for coping with Parkinson's disease at home.

• Improve your sleep health: Make sure your bedroom is set up for sleep. Remove technology devices and other stimulants and try to make your bed a calm sanctuary where you can get the rest you need. 
• Keep a medication chart: You may have to take several different medications at a time, so keeping a chart will help you stay organized. 
• Ask for help: Find someone you can call on for help when you need it, such as a friendly neighbor, family member or friend. 
• Remove hazards: As your Parkinson's progresses, you may find it difficult to move around freely. You may also experience frozen or shuffling gait, which can catch you off-guard. Make sure to remove trip hazards and fall risks from the home to minimize the chance of injury and ease your anxiety.

As difficult as it may seem, many people find ways to live successful and happy lives with Parkinson's disease. It may take a while to find the right medication to control your symptoms, and it might not be the whole answer. However, there will be a route through this, and you can find new ways to make your life enjoyable and meaningful

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Is taking Parkinson's disease medication and alcohol always a bad idea? Enjoying a glass of wine or beer is a common lifestyle choice, and it's one that many people enjoy in moderation without any problems. However, heavy alcohol use can be incredibly detrimental to health, and it can worsen symptoms of Parkinson’s disease such as sleep disorders and depression. What's more, Parkinson's disease medication and alcohol don't always mix.

Parkinson’s Disease Medication and Alcohol

Little is known about the effects of alcohol on Parkinson's disease itself. However, most doctors will tell you to avoid alcohol if you're taking medications for PD. Here, we'll look at some of the most common Parkinson's disease medications and their interactions with alcohol.

Levodopa

Many Parkinson’s disease medications contain levodopa, also known as L-dopa. Levodopa is essentially a chemical building block that your body converts into dopamine to control the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Alcohol can increase the nervous system effects of levodopa such as drowsiness, dizziness and thinking impairment. Therefore, most guidelines state that you should avoid or limit alcohol consumption when taking this drug.

Dopamine agonists

Dopamine agonists are often used to treat Parkinson’s disease in place of levodopa. They can cause significant side-effects such as hallucinations, euphoria, psychosis and compulsive behavior. However, they do have the advantage of causing fewer long-term motor symptoms than other PD medications. Dopamine agonists are administered in small doses at first to check how you respond. Therefore a glass of wine is unlikely to affect you much. However, you should always consult your doctor before drinking alcohol with this medication.

Amantadine

Amantadine is the generic form of the branded drug, Symmetrel, which is used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease such as shaking and muscle stiffness. It can also be used to treat and prevent respiratory infections like influenza. According to Everyday Health, you should not drink alcohol while taking this medicine. This is because mixing amantadine with alcohol may cause circulation problems, dizziness, fainting and confusion.

MAO-B inhibitors

MAO-B inhibitors are used to treat the breakdown of dopamine in the brain, which helps relieve the symptoms of Parkinson's. Common side effects include nausea and involuntary movements. MAO-B inhibitors can interact with other drugs (such as antidepressants) and raise blood pressure to a dangerous level. Because alcohol can also increase blood pressure, you are not advised to drink with this medication. 

Parkinson’s Medication and Alcohol: The Final Word

Whether or not you should drink alcohol while being treated for Parkinson's disease will depend on the medication you're taking. It is worth discussing this issue with your doctor, especially if you have concerns about alcohol dependence or addiction.

General health guidelines state that you should avoid drinking alcohol with any medication that makes you drowsy, sleepy or impairs your concentration. That said, many people with Parkinson’s disease find that the occasional glass of wine is not harmful, as long as their doctor has agreed that they can drink in moderation.

You should always speak to your doctor before you mix Parkinson's disease medication and alcohol for the first time. You should never drive or operate heavy machinery when you have been drinking alcohol, and you should make sure you are in safe surroundings to minimize the risk of falls or injury.

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Worried about your Parkinson's disease life expectancy? A Parkinson's disease diagnosis comes with many worries and anxieties. One worry concerns the progression of the disease and whether Parkinson’s disease can be fatal. The issue is rarely straightforward, but there is no reason to think your condition is a death sentence. Many people live for years or decades with their Parkinson’s disease symptoms under control, while the illness progresses more quickly for others. It's important that you know what to expect when you're diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, so don't be afraid to ask questions and air your concerns to your doctor. For now, let's explore the issue of life expectancy of patients with Parkinson's disease and address some common concerns.

Parkinson’s Disease Life Expectancy: Common Concerns

Whether you’ve just been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease or your symptoms have started progressing, you’re bound to have concerns about your condition. Here are answers to some common questions about Parkinson’s disease.

Is Parkinson’s disease fatal?

Most doctors agree that Parkinson’s disease is not fatal. In fact, the majority of Parkinson’s patients live as long as others in their age group. According to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, people with Parkinson’s die WITH the condition, not from it. This means that, as the disease progresses, your risk factor for fatal injuries (such as falls and pulmonary conditions) increases, but Parkinson’s itself does not cause death.

What is the main cause of death in Parkinson’s disease patients?

Parkinson's is often referred to as a "bespoke" disease because it affects each patient differently. Another factor worth considering is that Parkinson's disease generally affects people in their 60s, most of whom die of unrelated conditions such as cancer, heart disease or stroke. However, the most common cause of death in those with Parkinson's disease is pneumonia. This is because the disease can impair your ability to swallow in the later stages, putting you at risk for aspirating food or liquid into the lungs.

What is the prognosis for someone with early-onset Parkinson’s?

One of the challenges of early-onset Parkinson’s disease is that you will inevitably live longer with the condition, as Parkinson’s alone is not fatal. Early-onset (also known as youth-onset) Parkinson’s disease does not always present the same way as late-onset Parkinson’s disease, and there is no definite prognosis. Younger Parkinson’s patients may be more at risk of developing non-motor symptoms, such as depression, sleep disorders, anxiety and urinary issues, which can cause health complications as the disease progresses.

However, early-onset patients also show slower disease progression, and it can take years to move between stages. Each case of Parkinson’s is reviewed on an individual basis, so only your doctor can tell you your prognosis.

Parkinson’s disease late stages: what will happen to me?

With advanced Parkinson’s disease, stage 5 life expectancy can be months or years depending on how your condition presents. You are likely to need round-the-clock care at this stage, and you may not be able to move around independently. Patients with late-stage Parkinson’s disease are more susceptible to pneumonia, sepsis, pyelonephritis and decubitus ulcers. Late-stage Parkinson’s also leads to Parkinson’s disease dementia in 50% of cases. For all of these reasons, many late-stage Parkinson’s patients are cared for by loved ones or in a hospice.

Parkinson’s Disease: Is Death Inevitable?

Death is inevitable for us all, but Parkinson's disease in itself is not a death sentence. Your prognosis will depend on your age, general health, and how your Parkinson's has progressed. However, there is no reason to assume that you won't continue to live a full and productive life with the condition.

Scientists are performing new medical trials and research all the time to look for a cure for Parkinson’s disease, while our understanding of medications and treatments is better than it has ever been. Therefore, there are plenty of ways you can control the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and make changes to your lifestyle as necessary. Many Parkinson’s patients take up yoga, gardening, swimming and walking to improve their strength, flexibility and mental health. Others use physical therapy, massage and meditation to help keep symptoms at bay. These are great ways to extend your life expectancy – with or without Parkinson’s disease.

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Can Parenting Classes Help if My Child Has a Mental Illness?

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Mayo Clinic Staff. (2018). Mental illness in children: Know the signs. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved May 2019 from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/childrens-health/in-depth/mental-illness-in-children/art-20046577

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Does your child have a specific issue? We’ll help you through it. Smarter Parenting. Retrieved May 2019 from https://www.smarterparenting.com/

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Parenting a Teenager Who is Living with Mental Illness

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Raising Children Diagnosed with a Mental Illness

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What You Must Know About Parenting a Child with Autism

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Must-Have Skills for Parenting Children with Anxiety

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The Parkinson’s disease stages are well-known among doctors. If you are diagnosed with Parkinson's, it's important to be aware of these stages so you can prepare yourself and your family for the future. As the disease progresses, you may develop further needs or require full-time care. Find out everything you need to know about the five stages of Parkinson’s disease and the progression of Parkinson’s symptoms.

What Are the 5 Parkinson’s Disease Stages?

Parkinson's disease presents differently in everyone. However, Parkinson's is a neurological disorder which tends to follow a pattern of recognizable symptoms. This is known among doctors as the Hoehn and Yahr rating scale, which is broken down into five Parkinson’s disease stages. These marked stages will help your doctor evaluate your Parkinson’s disease progression.

Stage 1: Parkinson’s Disease Early Stages

Stage one is where most people are when they are diagnosed. This is the mildest form of Parkinson’s, where symptoms are often not marked enough for people to notice them in themselves. At this stage, family and friends may notice changes in your facial expressions, voice or the way you move. Tremors are a distinct symptom at this stage, particularly in the hands – though not everyone with stage one Parkinson’s experiences them.

Stage 2 of Parkinson’s Disease

Stage two usually marks a more moderate form of Parkinson’s disease. Stiffness, tremors and trembling may be more noticeable, and difficulty walking may interfere with your daily life. You should still be able to care for yourself at this stage, though you may start to experience speech difficulties and slow movement that can make life more difficult. Parkinson's medication can help combat these symptoms.

Stage 3 of Parkinson’s Disease

Stage three marks a turning point in the progression of Parkinson's. You may now experience loss of balance, change in posture and impaired reflexes. At this stage, medication combined with occupational therapy can help ease the symptoms, although trips and falls are more common after stage three.

Stage 4 of Parkinson’s Disease

When you reach stage four, you may struggle to live independently. Many people with stage four Parkinson’s have trouble walking and even standing without assistance. You can get movement devices and walkers to help you move around. However, living alone can be dangerous at this stage due to the risk of injury.

Stage 5 of Parkinson’s Disease

Stage five is the most advanced stage of the disease, where round-the-clock assistance is usually required. You may also experience psychological symptoms at this stage, such as confusion, hallucinations and delusions. It's important to note that Parkinson's on its own is not fatal. However, some of the later symptoms of Parkinson's disease – such as movement impairment and difficulty swallowing – can lead to life-threatening injuries.

One criticism of this scale is that it does not account for non-motor symptoms, such as sleep difficulties, mood disorders and loss of smell. For this reason, doctors do not rely on the five stages alone. They will perform a thorough analysis of your symptoms to determine how your disease is progressing.

Parkinson’s Disease: The Progression of Symptoms

Many patients wonder how long their disease will take to progress to stage five. The truth is that there is no way to predict individual progression. These five Parkinson’s disease stages are different for everyone. For some, it can take years to move from stage one to stage two; for others, the disease can progress in a matter of months. Your doctor should be happy to answer any questions you have relating to the progression of your symptoms, but you can also make use of online resources, such as the ones listed below.

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In recent years, recognition has increased of the potential impact that parental mental illness can have on a child.

The impact of parental mental illness on family life and the child's well-being can be significant. Children whose parents have a mental illness are at risk of developing social, emotional and/or behavioral problems. The environment in which youth grow affects their development and emotional well-being as much as their genetic makeup does.

A number of challenges faced by the children of a parent with mental illness have been identified. For example:

• the child may take on inappropriate levels of responsibility in caring for themselves and managing the household.
• sometimes, the children blame themselves for their parents' difficulties and experience anger, anxiety or guilt.
• feeling embarrassed or ashamed as a result of the stigma associated with their parents' mental illness, they may become isolated from their peers and other community members.
• they may be at increased risk for problems at school, drug use, and poor social relationships.

Children of parents with any mental illness are at risk a range of mental health problems, including mood disorders, alcoholism, and personality disorders.

Despite these challenges, many children of parents with mental illness succeed in spite of genetic and environmental setbacks. Success is directly related to the number of strengths and challenges present within the family: the greater the number of strengths and the smaller number of challenges, the greater the likelihood of a child being successful. Researchers report that services for families and children should include opportunities to reduce challenges and enhance strengths and thus improve the opportunity for child success.

Sources:

• Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, Vol. 9, No. 1, 39-52 (2004)
• British Medical Journal. 2003 August 2; 327(7409): 242-243.

Do you suspect a Parkinson's disease diagnosis? If you're showing some of the early warning signs of Parkinson's, it's important to schedule a medical exam. Your doctor will then assess your symptoms and confirm whether or not Parkinson's is the cause. It's normal to be nervous about this appointment, but the diagnostic test is relatively straightforward. Find out what to expect from a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis, as well as what comes after.

Will I Get a Parkinson’s Disease Diagnosis?

It’s important to see your doctor if you notice Parkinson’s disease symptoms over a period of time, especially if they are interfering with your daily life. You will be given a confirmed diagnosis if you meet Parkinson’s disease diagnosis criteria, as long as your symptoms cannot be explained by another condition.

To be diagnosed with Parkinson’s, you must show signs of bradykinesia – a marked slowing of movement and reduced arm swing when walking– as well as one or more of the following symptoms:

• Muscular rigidity
• Tremors
• Postural instability (difficulty standing and sitting up straight)

How Parkinson’s Disease Is Diagnosed

Your doctor will perform a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis test by assessing your genetic history, symptoms and with a neurological and physical examination. If you meet the criteria for Parkinson’s, your doctor may refer you to a neurologist or movement doctor to confirm your diagnosis.

Your doctor may want to perform lab tests to check if there are any other causes for your symptoms. Although imaging tests aren't helpful in diagnosing Parkinson's disease, doctors will often do MRI and CT scans to rule out other conditions.

It can take time to deliver a Parkinson’s disease diagnoses. Doctors will usually arrange follow-up appointments with neurologists to evaluate your symptoms over time. You may also be given dopaminergic medications to see whether Parkinson’s symptoms improve ("Parkinson’s Disease Medication List: Can These Meds Help You?").

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

If you receive a Parkinson's disease diagnosis, you will understandably have questions for your doctor. Here are some questions you might want to ask to help further your understanding of the condition:

• What are my Parkinson’s disease treatment options?
• What are the pros and cons of each medication/ treatment?
• What kind of support will I need at home?
• Are there clinical trials I can take part in?
• What lifestyle modifications should I explore to help me feel better?
• How can I manage stress related to Parkinson’s disease?
• Are there any foods, supplements or medications I should avoid?
• Can you recommend any Parkinson’s support groups?

After a Parkinson’s Disease Diagnosis: What Comes Next?

If you receive a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis, your doctor will work with you to find the best treatment plan for your needs. Doctors also have a responsibility to communicate their findings to your caregivers to ensure you receive adequate help and support.

A team of medical professionals will also monitor the stages of Parkinson using the Hoehn and Yahr rating scale. Sometimes it takes years for Parkinson’s to progress, but there is no telling how the disorder will affect you on an individual level. Your doctors will work with you to monitor your symptoms and suggest new treatment when appropriate. In the latter stages of Parkinson’s, you may need round-the-clock care.

It’s important to seek help and support after a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis, as the condition can take an emotional toll. It's also a good idea to get as informed as possible about your health so that you and your family know what to expect. There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but medication and physical therapy can ease symptoms and help you enjoy a better quality of life.

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What is Parkinson's disease? Parkinson's disease is a progressive illness of the nervous system which mostly affects middle-aged and older adults. However, the condition is less commonly found in younger people – known as early-onset Parkinson's. One famous example of this is the actor, Michael J Fox, who was diagnosed at age 29. A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease is life-changing, and there is currently no cure.

Parkinson's disease affects around 60,000 Americans each year. However, with treatment to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms, there is no reason why one can't continue to live a long life with the condition. With this in mind, what is Parkinson’s disease and what are the next steps after a Parkinson’s diagnosis?

Parkinson’s Disease Is…

Parkinson’s disease was first characterized by James Parkinson, an English doctor, in 1817. The disease results from the loss of cells in various parts of the brain, leading to the disruption of chemical messengers – specifically the ones responsible for coordinating movement. As such, Parkinson's is often considered a "movement disorder" by physicians.  

According to The Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research:

“Parkinson’s disease is a chronic, degenerative neurological disorder that affects 1 in 100 people over the age of 60, although some people are diagnosed at 40 or younger.”

The Parkinson’s disease definition is clear, so thankfully the illness is well-understood by doctors. Although there is no known cure for Parkinson’s disease, there are plenty of ways you can affect the course of your condition and live well with Parkinson's disease after a diagnosis ("Parkinson’s Disease Facts and Statistics: Did You Know…?").

What to Do If You Have Parkinson’s Disease

If you’ve just found out you have Parkinson’s disease or you are displaying symptoms, don’t panic. Remember that you are not alone. Here are some tips to help you deal with your diagnosis:

• Find a doctor you like: If you've not yet been diagnosed, your doctor will evaluate your symptoms and confirm that you either have or do not have Parkinson's disease. If you receive a diagnosis of Parkinson’s, your doctor will help you formulate a medication plan to help control your symptoms.
• Exercise: Many Parkinson’s patients report that exercise helps them control their condition. Helpful exercises for people with Parkinson's include swimming, yoga and walking.
• Keep stress levels to a minimum: Stress has been known to exacerbate the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Therefore, you should avoid stressful situations wherever possible and take steps to look after your mental health. Some ideas include practicing mindfulness meditation, getting regular fresh air, exercising and talking to a professional counselor if you are struggling emotionally.
• Connect with others: Having Parkinson's disease can feel lonely at times, and you may not find that your friends and family always understand what you're going through. Therefore, connecting with other Parkinson's patients will help you learn about your disease, plus you'll have others with whom to share your challenges.
• Volunteer for clinical trials: People with Parkinson’s may decide to volunteer for clinical trials to accelerate the drug development process. This makes some patients feel they have more control over their condition.

Parkinson’s Disease Is a Lifelong Condition, But There Is Hope

Doctors are working hard to find a cure for the disease, as well as testing new Parkinson's medications to help control the symptoms. While Parkinson's disease won't go away on its own, there are a variety of treatments that will help you live a full life, possibly for years to come.

Your options as someone diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease include:

• Medication prescribed by your doctors, such as Levodopa or Sinemet.
• Surgical intervention, also known as deep brain stimulation (DBS).
• Taking charge of your health and improving your lifestyle, mainly by incorporating exercise into your daily routine.

Scientists are developing new drugs and furthering their understanding of Parkinson’s disease every day. Most people can get relief from the symptoms of the disease using medication, but you must also factor in your mental health.

If you're struggling with the emotional aftermath of a Parkinson's diagnosis or you want to know more about the disease, you can contact the National Parkinson's Foundation Helpline, which is staffed by nurses, social workers, and therapists: 1-800-4PD-INFO (473-4636).

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