World Parkinson’s Day: Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and progressive neurodegenerative disorder of the central nervous system that significantly affects quality of life. Parkinson’s disease, which is usually associated with elderly people, can also affect young people prominently due to environmental factors.
Parkinson’s in young people, defined as those under the age of 50, is known as young-onset Parkinson’s disease. Although rare, it can be more challenging to diagnose and manage than the disease in older adults.
What causes Parkinson’s in young adults?
“The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is not well understood, but it is thought to be a combination of factors. Genetics plays a role, but young people should be mindful of their lifestyle as many environmental factors can contribute Parkinson’s disease,” said Ritu Jha, HOD and Associate Director, Department of Neurology, Sarvodaya Hospital, Faridabad.
“Exposure to air pollution, especially fine particulate matter, is also a risk factor. It can cause inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which can damage neurons. In addition, traumatic brain injuries, especially those in which there is loss of consciousness have also been associated with an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease,” she said.
The doctor also said that exposure to certain pesticides and herbicides can damage dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, which are responsible for controlling bodily movements.
heavy metals such as lead and mercury; Solvents such as trichlorethylene and perchlorethylene are commonly used in dry cleaning and industrial processes and have also been linked to an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease.
“These can accumulate in the brain and cause oxidative stress, which can damage neurons. It can also damage the nervous system, leading to Parkinson’s disease.”
Can Parkinson’s be cured?
Shuchin Bajaj, Founder and Director, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, said although there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
early warning signs of parkinson’s disease
“Shivering or shaking, slowness of movement, stiffness in limbs, difficulty in maintaining balance and coordination, soft, slurred or slurred speech, loss of sense of smell are some of the early warning signs of Parkinson’s disease that should not be ignored.”
“If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention. A neurologist can help diagnose Parkinson’s disease and provide appropriate treatment options,” Bajaj said.
treatment for parkinson’s disease
Treatment of Parkinson’s disease in young people is similar to that of older individuals and may include medication, lifestyle modifications, and surgery in some cases.
Jha said, “Young people with Parkinson’s can benefit from lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a healthy diet and stress reduction techniques. These can help improve overall health and well-being and slow the progression of the disease.” I can help too.” Said.
In some cases, young people may need surgery such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) which involves placing electrodes in the brain. The doctor added that DBS is effective in improving motor symptoms, reducing medication requirements, and improving quality of life in patients.