Family Coping With Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinsons disease affects the control of the muscle movement in the brain, particularly the nerve cells. The chemical dopamine, which is made by the neurons of the brain, is dysfunctional. Sending signals to the brain is the job of the chemical dopamine. Therefore, if the dopamine is not working properly then the signals of the brain do not transmit properly.
Symptoms of Parkinsons disease are typically tremors, mainly of the extremities and facial region. Other symptoms would include a normal than average slowness, impaired coordination, and stiffening of the body. This disease is known to appear gradually and eventually worsening. As this deterioration unravels there is noticeable sleep disturbances, difficulty with speech and/or walking, depression, completing small tasks, particularly involving the use of fine motor skills, and difficulty with swallowing and chewing.
Parkinsons disease affects far more men than women and occurs most commonly in the late 50s and early 60s. It has been known, however, to occur in younger than that. Parkinsons disease offers no cure, but symptoms can be alleviated with the use of medication.
In a family that is coping with Parkinsons disease it is extremely difficult for them to come to terms with this. They see their healthy, happy and alert loved one, perhaps their parent change from healthy and independent to virtually helpless. The first reaction of the family members is often denial. They investigate issues regarding the disease and finally come to terms with what they have been told. Curing Parkinsons disease has not been done and treatment of the symptoms is the best that we can hope for.
Families coping with Parkinsons disease are in need of support. If you know someone with Parkinsons disease, please help him or her with whatever they ask of you, if at all possible.
Families coping with Parkinsons disease are best helped through learning. The more that they learn about Parkinsons disease the better equipped they are to deal with it. The need for the caregiver or family member coping with Parkinsons disease take care of their own minds and bodies first before attempting to be the supporter is highly suggested. In this way they will be better able to care for the Parkinsons victim.
A good attitude and being around other friends and families to provide a distraction are good coping skills to put into place. Regular exercise and good nutrition will provide much needed energy. Learning how to best manage the stress embodies a brighter disposition.
If you are in a family that is coping with Parkinsons disease counseling, as well as a good support group other than family with do wonders for that person.
See to it that your loved one who is afflicted with Parkinsons disease gets proper medical care to avoid or slow down any current difficulties that they might be having. Always consult with the physician for further treatments or medications to keep the Parkinsons disease under better control.
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