Parkinson's disease: 7 lifestyle factors that worsen symptoms

Parkinson's disease is a disease that causes problems with movement, sleep, and mental health. There is no cure, but there are treatments and medications that can reduce symptoms such as tremors, difficulty speaking, and painful muscle contractions. There are certain things and habits that can make Parkinson's symptoms worse. The list also includes medications that can be used to manage some symptoms in people with this health condition. On April 11th, World Parkinson's Day, we'd like to talk about things that can make your Parkinson's symptoms worse.

What is Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that primarily affects movement. Neurosurgeon Dr. Aditya Gupta said it occurs when nerve cells in the brain, especially those in the substantia nigra, gradually break down or die. These cells produce dopamine, an important neurotransmitter for coordinating movement. When dopamine levels drop, people with Parkinson's disease experience tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement, and problems with balance and coordination.

The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is not completely understood, but it is thought that genetic factors may be involved. Age is also an important risk factor, with most people diagnosed after age 60, experts say.

What are the signs of Parkinson's disease?

Signs of Parkinson's disease vary from person to person, but commonly include:

• Tremors, especially in the hands, arms, and legs.
• Stiffness or stiffness of the muscles.
• bradykinesia or slowness of movement.
• Postural instability that causes balance problems.
• Changes in speaking, writing, and facial expressions.
• depression.
• anxiety
• Sleeping disorder.

What makes Parkinson's symptoms worse?

The following may make your symptoms worse:

1. Stress

The body's natural response to stress includes increased muscle tension and increased heart rate, which can worsen tremors and rigidity in Parkinson's patients, experts say. Stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises may help reduce these effects by calming the nervous system.

2. Lack of sleep

Insufficient or poor quality sleep disrupts the body's natural rhythms, increasing fatigue and worsening motor symptoms in people with Parkinson's disease. To manage Parkinson's symptoms, it's important to establish good sleep hygiene habits and address the underlying sleep disorder with the help of your doctor.

3. Illness or infection

Illnesses and infections can put additional stress on the body and temporarily worsen Parkinson's symptoms. The immune response triggered by the body to fight off infection can worsen inflammation, which can affect dopamine levels in the brain and worsen motor symptoms. It's important for people with Parkinson's disease to deal with illnesses and infections quickly and stay vigilant about maintaining their overall health.

4. Timing or dosage of medication

Proper timing and dosing of medications is essential to effectively manage Parkinson's disease symptoms. If you don't take your medication as prescribed, you may experience fluctuations in symptom control and periods of worsening symptoms known as “off” episodes, Dr. Gupta says.

5. Malnutrition

Malnutrition and dehydration can affect drug absorption and overall health, making Parkinson's symptoms worse. Maintaining a balanced diet consisting of nutritious foods supports overall health and can increase the effectiveness of Parkinson's disease medications.

6. Inactive

Lack of physical activity contributes to muscle stiffness and weakness, which can worsen motor symptoms in people with Parkinson's disease. Regular exercise and stretching can help improve your mobility, balance, and overall body function. Participating in physical activity also promotes the release of endorphins, which can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety commonly experienced by people with Parkinson's disease.

7. Certain medicines

Some medicines can make Parkinson's symptoms worse. Medications such as antipsychotics, antiemetics, and some antidepressants can interfere with dopamine levels or worsen motor symptoms. For example, citalopram, which is often used to treat depression. According to his 2000 study published in the Journal of Parkinson's Disease and Related Disorders, Parkinson's disease patients experienced worsening of motor status immediately after adding citalopram to their medication list.

How can I manage Parkinson's symptoms?

Managing Parkinson's symptoms usually requires a combination of medication, physical therapy, speech therapy and lifestyle modifications, experts say.

• Medications aim to reduce motor symptoms by increasing dopamine levels in the brain or mimicking its effects.
• Physical therapy and exercise programs can improve mobility, flexibility, and balance.
• Speech therapy can help address speech and swallowing problems.
• Support groups and counseling can provide emotional support and practical advice to cope with the challenges of living with Parkinson's disease.

Regular monitoring by your doctor is essential to adjust your treatment plan as needed and address any new symptoms or complications related to Parkinson's disease.