Parkinson’s is a neurological condition that causes problems in the brain that get worse over time.
People with the condition don’t have enough of the chemical dopamine as some of the nerve cells that make it have died. We need dopamine as it functions as a neurotransmitter sending signals to other nerve cells. That’s why some of the most popular symptoms linked to the condition that we hear about relates to tremors or uncontrollable body movement.
There’s no cure for the condition and no one really knows why people get it although researchers think it’s a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
The last drug discovery was made over 50 years ago. This year, Parkinson’s UK’s #WeWontWait campaign is about making it clear that more funding is needed for the right people to be employed to help find a cure using today’s advancements in science to their advantage.
Most people relate the condition to old age, but the truth is anyone can get it. Watch Emma Lawton’s story in the Belfast Telegraph (By Press Association) talking about being diagnosed with Parkinson’s at 29 and what it means for her in her 30s.
Emma, a creative director, says in the video that she has dreams just like everyone.
She said: “I just want to live a normal life. I’ve got plans and aspirations for my future and I don’t want to have to not do them.”
The sad thing is, Parkinson’s drugs temporarily act as a band aid for the symptoms, and some have distressing side effects.
Parkinson’s UK charity believes that with the many breakthroughs in science, now is the time to find a cure. See their video on how they intend to find a cure.
Physical symptoms of Parkinson’s can include:
- Tremor
- Slowness or movement
- Rigidity
- Bladder and bowel problems
Not everyone experiences all these symptoms, it varies from person to person. You can see a full list of symptoms on Parkinsons.org.
Having Parkinson’s can feel overwhelming if you don’t have the right information and support. While treatments don’t reverse the effects they do help, and there are also therapies and other types of support available to those affected.
Monitoring your symptoms
Sometimes maintaining a diary can help the doctor see how the person affected has been coping over a period of time to pinpoint areas where they’re having difficulties.
Monitoring symptoms in this way can also help to identify how abilities can vary from day to day which can inform the medication system set up.
Naturally a diary means you don’t always have to say the embarrassing symptoms out loud, the doctor will understand just from reading what you’ve written. But don’t worry, chances are the doctor would have seen the symptom before, there really isn’t anything to feel shy about.
How you can help
We can help by spreading the following message and of course by donating:
- Parkinson’s can affect anyone at any age, just look at Emma experiencing the condition in her 30s
- The last drug discovery made was 50 years ago
- With enough funds Parkinson’s UK can employ the brightest people to help find a cure for the condition using science’s major advancements.
It’s really important to be mindful of the impact Parkinson’s has on the person experiencing it as well as their carers. If you are a carer or know one, see Parkinson’s UK for advice on managing the challenges.