2023-10-04 06:03:37
Parkinson’s Disease on the Rise: More Young People Affected, Recognizing Early Symptoms
Parkinson’s disease has been identified as the fastest-growing brain disease worldwide for several years, with an alarming increase in the number of Dutch people affected, including a significant proportion in their thirties and forties. The rising prevalence of this debilitating disease raises questions about the root causes and the importance of early detection.
First described by British physician James Parkinson in 1817, Parkinson’s disease is a chronic brain disorder that results in the accelerated death of nerve cells. This leads to a decreased production of dopamine in the brain, a neurotransmitter responsible for pleasure and facilitating daily movements.
The most commonly recognized symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include difficulty moving and reduced muscle control. These manifest in shaking hands, diminished motor skills, speech difficulties, and balance problems. In addition to these physical symptoms, the disease can also have significant mental consequences such as memory loss, depression, and sleep issues.
While motor problems and hand trembling are well-known symptoms, they often become apparent only after the disease has silently progressed within the body for years. Neurologist Bas Bloem from the Nijmegen Radboud University Medical Center warns that by the time most patients receive a diagnosis, approximately 70 percent of their dopamine area is already destroyed. Hence, it is crucial to pay attention to lesser-known early signs such as constipation, a reduced sense of smell, restless sleep, mood disorders, impulsive behavior, and slowed thinking.
The rise in Parkinson’s disease cases among younger individuals is particularly concerning. Bloem and other experts attribute this trend to pesticide and chemical exposure, commonly found in the agricultural and gardening sectors. Increased pollution levels are also believed to be contributing factors. These connections to environmental factors echo the disease’s initial discovery during the Industrial Revolution when England experienced significant pollution. Bloem explains that the growing understanding suggests Parkinson’s is a lifestyle disease as it was almost non-existent before 1817.
While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s, there are methods to manage and slow the progression of symptoms. Brain surgery is one of the most radical approaches, although it carries significant risks. Medications such as levodopa can stimulate dopamine production and alleviate symptoms. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can also help mitigate the effects of the disease. The Parkinson Fund recommends consuming ample fruits, vegetables, carbohydrates, and proteins, as well as staying hydrated with 8 to 10 glasses of water daily to combat potential constipation.
As Parkinson’s disease continues to affect growing numbers of people, raising awareness about early symptoms and emphasizing prevention strategies is crucial. By identifying the disease in its early stages, individuals can seek appropriate medical care and potentially slow the progression of symptoms, improving their quality of life.
Sources:
– Archive, Parkinson Fund Foundation, RadboudUMC, Dutch Brain Foundation, VUmc, Algemeen Dagblad, Thuisarts, NRC, Op1.
– Photo: Shutterstock]
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