HERMISTON, Ore.-April is Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the debilitating disease for which there is no known cause or cure.
Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disease that occurs when neurons that produce dopamine in the brain slowly break down or die.
“With a diagnosis every six minutes, public awareness and support are crucial,” according to the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA), which helps the Parkinson’s community with resources, support and medical expertise.
Decreased dopamine levels can lead to irregular brain activity, which causes the movement problems and other symptoms associated with Parkinson’s, according to the Mayo Clinic.
“Hand tremors are a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease and often prompt individuals to seek medical evaluation,” said Good Shepherd Health Care System Chief Medical Officer & Board-Certified Internist Dr. Brian Larsen. “However, it’s important to note that hand tremors can also be caused by other conditions, such as essential tremor. Essential tremor is a neurological disorder that causes involuntary and rhythmic shaking, typically in the hands.”
Parkinson’s Disease is now the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the world behind Alzheimer’s, and the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that neurodegenerative diseases will surpass cancer as the second-leading cause of death worldwide by 2040.
Research currently believes that Parkinson’s Disease may be the result of both genetic and environmental factors.
Gene mutations or family history of the disease may contribute up to 25 percent to the risk of developing Parkinson’s, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Environmental factors, including head trauma or exposure to toxic metals or chemicals may also contribute to the development of Parkinson’s Disease, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation.
While the exact cause of Parkinson’s is unknown, 90,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with the disease each year, with symptoms often developing slowly over the course of years.
“Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals experiencing tremors and Parkinson’s,” said Dr. Larsen.
Early signs of Parkinson’s Disease
Tremors in the hands or fingers
Loss of smell
Trouble sleeping at night and difficulty walking or moving
Balance issues or dizziness and fainting
Facial masking (reduced facial expressions)
Stooping
The progression of Parkinson’s Disease spans five stages, and symptoms can be managed through treatment, medications, lifestyle changes, exercise and some surgeries, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation.
“If you or someone you know is experiencing hand tremors, it is crucial to contact a medical provider for a thorough evaluation,” according to Dr. Larsen. “A healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause of the tremors and recommend appropriate treatment options.”
Stages of Parkinson’s Disease
Stages 1 and 2: Symptoms are often mild and usually don’t interfere with daily activities
Stages 2 and 3: Symptoms tend to get worse, and falls may become common
Stages 4 and 5: Symptoms are fully developed, and constant care is typically needed
While April may be Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month, many groups and medical research organizations work throughout the year supporting patients and searching for a cure, including the Parkinson’s Foundation, the American Parkinson Disease Association and the Michal J. Fox Foundation.
Good Shepherd Internal Medicine can be reached at 541.667.3797 and appointments may also be requested online.
