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UNDERSTANDING PARKINSON'S DISEASE AND HOW TO SPOT IT

We've all heard of Parkinson's Disease, but how much do we know about the condition? Thanks to Muhammed Ali and Michael J. Fox, two of America's most famous Parkinson's patients, most people have an idea of what the disease looks like once it has progressed. However, since symptoms can vary widely, it may be more difficult for the average person to recognize the earlier signs.

Parkinson's Disease is a neurodegenerative disease that develops slowly over a long period. Patients with Parkinson's typically have low dopamine levels in the brain, a chemical that plays an essential role in movement and coordination. While the symptoms vary, the most common and most visible is a tremor in the hands, arms, legs, or other areas of the body. These are precisely the symptoms that made Muhammed Ali and Michael J. Fox's diagnosis visible to the world. Parkinson's itself is not fatal but can cause complications like trouble swallowing, falls, bladder problems, and digestive issues than can be.

There is a lot the medical community still does not know about Parkinson's Disease. The most common cause is genetics, and most people can live with the disease as long as it's managed properly. Since living a healthy life with Parkinson's Disease often depends on a patient's lifestyle choices, getting a diagnosis and quality medical care early is essential.

How does a person identify the early symptoms of Parkinson's? While they vary, some common physical symptoms you can look for are tremors, trouble moving or walking, constipation, or hunching over. Other less visible symptoms are the loss of smell, trouble sleeping, constipation, or speaking in a soft voice. Take note if you notice these symptoms in yourself or a loved one.

There is a strong genetic component to Parkinson's Disease. It's essential to know your family's medical history to understand your risk of developing Parkinson's Disease or any other genetically passed diseases. Since Parkinson's symptoms often begin developing in middle age, aging adults should contact their medical providers regularly and focus on leading healthy lives.

Adrienne Freeland is a freelance writer who specializes in helping business owners communicate more clearly. Using skills developed in her former career as a professional fundraiser, Adrienne collaborates with her clients to craft engaging, targeted content.