International Parkinson Disease Awareness Month
April also brings International Parkinson Disease Awareness Month. For me, Parkinson Disease (PD) hits close to home. My grandfather was diagnosed with PD when I was quite young and died almost nine years ago. Watching such a strong, independent man weaken and become extremely dependent was one of the most difficult things I have experienced.
For those of you unaware of what PD is, it is "a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system." The disease impacts one's motor skills as a result of a decrease (or cease) of dopamine. It was originally known as "Shaking Palsy." It was first studied by James Parkinson in 1817. Symptoms can include:
- tremors
- impaired balance
- slow movements
- fatigue
- issues with speech
- stooped posture
- difficulties writing
- and more...
As of today, there is no known cure. Diagnosis can be difficult and lengthy, and support is minimal. There have been significant strides in research and various operations have been found to slow the process of degeneration.
The average age for diagnosis is 60, although there is an early-onset type that occurs in 10-15% of those diagnosed. Life expectancy from time of diagnosis can be 15-20 years, although this is dependent on one's age, level of activity, and rapidity of progression.
To learn more about Parkinson Disease, visit the links below:
No comments:
Post a Comment