Parkinson’s Disease/Tremors Treatment at Houston Physicians’ Hospital
According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, more than 60,000 Americans— are diagnosed with the condition each year. One of the most debilitating and immobilizing neurological disorders there is, Parkinson’s disease affects the nerve cells in the brain that are responsible for the production of dopamine. This essential chemical messenger is essential in coordinating seamless muscle movements. Parkinson’s causes dopamine levels to gradually deteriorate causing abnormal brain activity.
The two biggest reasons why the condition worsens over time are when someone is diagnosed late or they are misdiagnosed. If left untreated, Parkinson’s disease may cause chronic impairment, hallucinations, and excruciating pain.
But, with timely detection, diagnosis, and treatment and the latest therapies, patients can resume normal activities and greatly delay the terminal stages of the disorder.
Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
Common symptoms of the condition include:
- Tremors
- Slowed movement
- Anosmia (Loss of the sense of smell)
- Stiffness in the limbs
- Changes in voice
- Deteriorating posture and balance
- Constipation
- Illegible handwriting
- Rigid muscles
- Restricted arm swinging while walking
- Sleep irregularities
You may experience the onset of mild symptoms before the condition fully develops delaying you from seeking immediate diagnosis and treatment. This is understandable since the symptoms are sometimes ignored or they are generally associated with other conditions.
Consult your doctor when they notice two or more of the aforementioned symptoms. Just because the symptoms may be mild, don’t take them lightly. The condition can quickly escalate, causing chronic motor problems within a matter of months.
Causes of Parkinson’s Disease
The condition is commonly caused by a wide range of overlapping genetic and environmental factors. In many cases, certain viruses are also known to trigger Parkinson’s disease or exacerbate the signs and symptoms. Diminishing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine are the most prominent causes of the disease.
The following factors make individuals more prone to developing the condition:
- Gender: According to research, men are 1.5 times more likely to suffer from the condition.
- Age: The condition is commonly detected in individuals between the ages of 50–60. While middle-aged and young adults may exhibit symptoms, they are less likely to suffer from the complex impairments caused by the condition.
- History: Individuals with a family history of the condition are more likely to exhibit symptoms.
- External trauma to the head: According to research, head injuries may also cause Parkinson’s disease. The nature and severity of the trauma will determine the extent of the condition and mild trauma may trigger symptoms.
How We Diagnose and Treat Parkinson’s Disease
Our team of Parkinson’s Disease specialists and physicians effectively diagnoses and treats Parkinson’s disease using the following treatment plans:
- Levodopa
- Dopamine agonists
- MAO B inhibitors
- COMT inhibitors
- Anticholinergics
- Deep brain stimulation (DBS)
- Amantadine
- Pump-delivered therapy
Depending on the severity and stage of the condition, you may be prescribed medication or surgery. Our physicians can help you gain long-term relief from the symptoms and regain your mobility and energy.
We utilize state-of-the-art technology, years of extensive medical expertise, and the latest therapies to provide treatment plans and follow-up care plans tailored to each patient. We serve patients across Southeast Texas—including South Houston, Webster, League City, Galveston, and Clear Lake, as well as neighboring towns.
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