What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder affecting movement, caused by loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra region of the brain. It affects approximately 7–10 million people worldwide. Neurological specialists at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi provide comprehensive Parkinson’s disease management.
Stages of Parkinson’s Disease (Hoehn and Yahr Scale)
- Stage 1: Unilateral tremor, minimal disability
- Stage 2: Bilateral involvement, posture slightly affected
- Stage 3: Balance impairment, mild-moderate disability
- Stage 4: Severe disability, can walk short distances
- Stage 5: Wheelchair-bound or bedridden
Cardinal Motor Symptoms (TRAP)
- T – Tremor: Resting tremor (“pill-rolling”), improved with intentional movement
- R – Rigidity: Muscle stiffness (“cogwheel rigidity”)
- A – Akinesia/Bradykinesia: Slowness and poverty of movement
- P – Postural instability: Balance problems, festinating gait
Non-Motor Symptoms
- Depression and anxiety
- Sleep disturbances (REM sleep behaviour disorder)
- Constipation and autonomic dysfunction
- Cognitive impairment and dementia
- Loss of smell (anosmia) – early symptom
Treatment
Medications
- Levodopa/Carbidopa: Most effective dopamine replacement
- Dopamine Agonists: Pramipexole, ropinirole, rotigotine patch
- MAO-B Inhibitors: Selegiline, rasagiline
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)
Surgical implantation of electrodes in specific brain areas (subthalamic nucleus or globus pallidus). Delivered for patients with medication-refractory motor fluctuations and dyskinesias. Significantly improves quality of life.
Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
LSVT BIG (for movement) and LSVT LOUD (for speech) are evidence-based programmes for PD.
Expert Parkinson’s disease management at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042
