Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Problems with Parkinson's

Depression

Many people with Parkinson's get depressed.[1] You may get depressed early on in the disease, before you notice other symptoms.You may not be severely depressed. But side effects of the drugs used to treat Parkinson's can make depression worse.Explain how you're feeling to your doctor. Antidepressants can help you feel better.
antidepressant

Antidepressants are medicines used to treat depression and sometimes other conditions. They work by changing the levels of chemicals in your brain called neurotransmitters. There are three main types of antidepressants, which work in different ways: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs).


Emotional changesWhen you find out you have Parkinson's disease, you may feel anxious or frightened.[1] You may also lose your motivation and become more dependent on your family.[2]Joining a support group may help you cope emotionally. You can get advice and support from other people with Parkinson's disease and their carers.

Difficulty in swallowing and chewing

The muscles you use for swallowing may not work as well later on in the disease.[1] If this happens, food and saliva can collect in the back of your throat. This can cause choking or drooling. You may find swallowing therapy helpful.

Speech changesAbout half of the people with Parkinson's disease have problems with their speech.[1] They may talk too softly, speak without much variation in their voice or slur their words.If your speech has changed, speech and language therapy might help you speak more clearly.

Constipation

Most people with Parkinson's disease have problems with constipation.[1] This is because the movement of their muscles slows down.Don't let your constipation last for several days. Ask your doctor for hel

constipated

When you're constipated, you have difficulty passing stools (faeces). Your bowel movements may be dry and hard. You may have fewer bowel movements than usual, and it may be a strain when you try to go.
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Skin problemsYour skin can become greasy or too dry.[1] You might also sweat a lot. Creams and other treatments for skin problems may help.

Sleep problemsYou may have difficulty sleeping at night and then feel drowsy during the day.[3] [4] It's unclear if sleep problems are caused by the disease or the drugs you take. There are treatments for sleep problems that you can buy at a pharmacy, but it's best to talk to your doctor before taking them.

DementiaAbout 1 in 5 people with Parkinson's disease get forgetful and confused. Their personality and behaviour can also be affected. This is called dementia.[5]There is a chance, especially if you're older, that you can have both Parkinson's disease and dementia. This combination makes treatment difficult.If you're caring for someone with both conditions, make sure you have support so you aren't shouldering the care all by yourself.

[6]Problems drivingYou should tell the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority) and your insurance company if you have Parkinson's disease. Your insurance may be invalid if you don't.[7]

__http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/besttreatments/parkinsons-disease-prognosis________________________________________________

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