What Causes The Condition
Although there are several recognized risk factors for Parkinsons disease, such as exposure to pesticides, for now, the only confirmed causes of Parkinsons disease are genetic. When Parkinsons disease isnt genetic, experts classify it as idiopathic . That means they dont know exactly why it happens.
Many conditions look like Parkinson’s disease but are instead parkinsonism from a specific cause like some psychiatric medications.
Familial Parkinsons disease
Parkinsons disease can have a familial cause, which means you can inherit it from one or both of your parents. However, this only makes up about 10% of all cases.
Experts have linked at least seven different genes to Parkinson’s disease. They’ve linked three of those to early-onset of the condition . Some genetic mutations also cause unique, distinguishing features.
Idiopathic Parkinsons disease
Experts believe idiopathic Parkinsons disease happens because of problems with how your body uses a protein called -synuclein . Proteins are chemical molecules that have a very specific shape. When some proteins dont have the correct shape a problem known as protein misfolding your body cant use them and can’t break them down.
With nowhere to go, the proteins build up in various places or in certain cells . The buildup of these Lewy bodies causes toxic effects and cell damage.
Induced Parkinsonism
The possible causes are:
Did You See The Latest Episode
This isnt a specific sayingits a reminder to talk about something else other than cancer. Cancer patients spend plenty of time discussing treatment, symptoms and prognosis. Your loved one will appreciate those who can find something brighter to talk about. Whatever the topic, getting their mind off their illness will be refreshing.
What To Say To Someone With Parkinsons Disease
Youve most likely read articles that say, Ten Things Not to Say to A Person with Parkinsons. They are filled with suggestions such as But you dont look sick, or maybe, My Uncle Nero had that and his arms fell off. Youve probably heard them all the possible and the far-fetched. The comments that are better left unsaid.
Well, this article is taking a turn.
It will give you five things to say to people with Parkinsons instead of things you shouldnt say.
The things you shouldnt say are usually observations or opinions you should avoid verbalizing to a person with Parkinsons. The things you should or could say to a person with Parkinsons are said to encourage, be informative , or said to bring a lightness or some humor to the situation.
So, if you are wanting to make a positive difference in the life of a Parkinsons patient, try using the following suggestions of things to say that may change their day for the better.
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What Is Parkinsons Disease
Parkinsons disease is a condition where a part of your brain deteriorates, causing more severe symptoms over time. While this condition is best known for how it affects muscle control, balance and movement, it can also cause a wide range of other effects on your senses, thinking ability, mental health and more.
Everything Happens For A Reason God Never Gives You More Than You Can Handle
First, the other person may wonder what reason would justify them developing Parkinson’s. Why do they have to sacrifice their health for a reason they may never understand? Finding a higher purpose in suffering is best done by the person in their own time, not because someone told them what it meant. Hearing it from someone else can seem harsh.
Second, it can seem like everyone’s response to Parkinson’s is measured and put on a chart for comparison. It adds a “pull yourself up by your bootstraps” expectation to managing a complex physical condition. It’s dismissive of the person’s struggle and discomfort. And while every individual can manage their mindset to some degree, this comment makes it sound like the burden of coping is solely on the individual’s shoulders.
What should you say instead?
It’s tempting to say something that puts the situation into a neat little box. Instead of referring to destiny or a reason, admit that youre at a loss for words. That’s more honest and relatable, even if it sounds awkward in your mind.
- “I want to say something really helpful and comforting, but nothing sounds quite right.”
- “I’m not sure if this helps, but I just want to say I’m here for you.”
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Take Part In Their Care
Your role as a positive person in their life is vital. However, you can also support them in the daily routine of managing their condition. This could be as simple as running a few regular errands every week or doing some yard chores. Or, if you both enjoy activities like cooking or gardening, create a supportive ritual together. It serves double duty as social time and practical assistance.
You may need to learn how to help if they feel unsteady or understand the early signs of exhaustion. Learn more about Parkinson’s from your loved one or their team so you know how to help.
Who Does It Affect
The risk of developing Parkinsons disease naturally increases with age, and the average age at which it starts is 60 years old. Its slightly more common in men or people designated male at birth than in women or people designated female at birth .
While Parkinsons disease is usually age-related, it can happen in adults as young as 20 .
Read Also: Symptoms And Progression Of Parkinson’s Disease
Suggest They Join A Support Group
A Parkinsons support group will allow your loved one to share their thoughts and feelings with others who are experiencing the same thing. This may help reduce loneliness and isolation.
Your loved one may learn about treatment options and resources that have helped others in the group, and make new friends in the process. Support groups also usually welcome the families and friends of people with Parkinsons.
What Medications And Treatments Are Used
Medication treatments for Parkinsons disease fall into two categories: Direct treatments and symptom treatments. Direct treatments target Parkinsons itself. Symptom treatments only treat certain effects of the disease.
Medications
Medications that treat Parkinsons disease do so in multiple ways. Because of that, drugs that do one or more of the following are most likely:
Several medications treat specific symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Symptoms treated often include the following:
- Erectile and sexual dysfunction.
- Hallucinations and other psychosis symptoms.
Deep brain stimulation
In years past, surgery was an option to intentionally damage and scar a part of your brain that was malfunctioning because of Parkinsons disease. Today, that same effect is possible using deep-brain stimulation, which uses an implanted device to deliver a mild electrical current to those same areas.
The major advantage is that deep-brain stimulation is reversible, while intentional scarring damage is not. This treatment approach is almost always an option in later stages of Parkinson’s disease when levodopa therapy becomes less effective, and in people who have tremor that doesnt seem to respond to the usual medications.
Experimental treatments
Researchers are exploring other possible treatments that could help with Parkinsons disease. While these arent widely available, they do offer hope to people with this condition. Some of the experimental treatment approaches include:
Also Check: Can Head Injury Cause Parkinson’s
Activities For People With Parkinsons Disease
Apr 7, 2022 | Health & Wellness |
For seniors with Parkinsons disease , finding activities to do can be difficult. Because of some of the diseases symptoms, such as tremors, balance issues, and slowed movement, seniors may not be able to participate in activities they once enjoyed. Staying engaged and challenged is an important part of dealing with PD. These activities can help:
Talk About Things Other Than Their Condition
Someone with Parkinson’s is a person first. They are still the same individual and want to be seen as more than the sum of their symptoms. This conversational tip goes with the first suggestion of taking your loved one out. As they stay actively involved in their interests, you’ll have lots of topics to discuss.
The musical they had on their wish list, the downtown market you went to last week, or the garden they’re planting are all more interesting than their daily struggles. There’s a time and place for that conversation, so don’t ignore it. But be ready to jump into current events and hobbies as well. They’ll feel more like themselves, and your discussion will distract them from any difficulties from the day.
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Learn Everything You Can About The Disease
Parkinsons disease is a movement disorder. If youre a caregiver for someone living with Parkinsons, youre likely familiar with some of the symptoms of the disease.
But do you know what causes its symptoms, how the condition progresses, or what treatments can help manage it? Also, Parkinsons doesnt manifest the same way in everyone.
To be the best ally for your loved one, learn as much as you can about Parkinsons disease. Do research on reputable websites like the Parkinsons Foundation, or read books about the condition.
Tag along for medical appointments and ask the doctor questions. If youre well informed, youll have a better idea of what to expect and how to be the most help.
How Is It Diagnosed
Diagnosing Parkinson’s disease is mostly a clinical process, meaning it relies heavily on a healthcare provider examining your symptoms, asking you questions and reviewing your medical history. Some diagnostic and lab tests are possible, but these are usually needed to rule out other conditions or certain causes. However, most lab tests aren’t necessary unless you don’t respond to treatment for Parkinson’s disease, which can indicate you have another condition.
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Do You Really Need All Of That Medication Should You Be Eating/doing That I Heard Youre Supposed To Do Instead
Asking about a person’s treatments can help you understand their experience. But these comments carry a doubtful and criticizing tone. You may mean well and want to help more than anything. But Parkinson’s isn’t something you fix so that it goes away. It isn’t that simple. This condition requires ongoing care and management.
But being critical can cause them to get defensive. If your loved one is at the beginning of their treatment or struggling for some reason, they may already wonder if anything they do will help. And even if you know something about Parkinson’s, each person’s journey is unique. This comment comes off as judgmental instead of helpful or curious.
What should you say instead?
It’s OK to have questions about Parkinson’s disease and some of the treatments. It’s all about the tone you bring to the conversation and your timing. While some people don’t mind talking about their condition, see if it’s a good time to talk about it first. Ask open-ended questions or statements like:
- Im curious about your treatments. Would you mind talking about some of them?
- I see you doing every day. How does that help you?
- I have some questions about Parkinsons. Is this a good time to ask you?
Quotes About Life’s Journey
Life is a journey, and lifes journey with Parkinsons requires tenacity and balance. May these words assist your journey as you manage daily life with Parkinsons.
You may journey alone or with your family or a group of friends, regardless, your journey continues with Parkinson’s. And for most of us, the life you lead with Parkinson’s will be long and hopefully, a successful journey. Have more fun, or take more time to breathe the fresh air with your life’s journey. Whatever it takes, always remember, it is your journey. If you are satisfied, then so be it.
These quotes were all written when I had taken a pause/break, a big gulp of air, or a recommitment to do something different. And I simply reminded myself hey you, your life’s here, why not take off and soar today!
Day 22: Be an inspiration for other people-with-Parkinsons such that they might say, because of you, I did not give up. Frank C. Church
Day 23: We start a new journey every day. And while the destinations vary from day to day, the collective paths will ultimately accumulate to be the road of our life. Frank C. Church
Day 24: Challenging times lead to challenging decisions. Embrace the challenge and trust your instincts to make the best decision. Frank C. Church
Day 26: You are still in charge of the script of your life. Your task is to compose the most hopeful and helpful storyline and then live it the way you want. Frank C. Church
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What Ways Do You Show Your Love
Weve said it before and well say it again: it is tough to know what to say when a loved one is diagnosed with cancer. We completely understand that not everyone wants to hear the same thing, and what makes one person smile may not be as helpful for another. That being said, we hope a few of these statements resonate with you and make it easier to comfort your loved one.
And if you have any additional ideas, please share them. Wed love to hear what words have helped you.
The Best Words Of Encouragement For A Sick Person
Categories Etiquette & advice
No one wants to be the sick person and live the rest of his/her life managing and coping with a serious illness, such as Parkinsons, cancer, diabetes or even dementia.
The right words of encouragement for sick person will give them a break from constantly worrying about their illness, whether they will make it or not it can even ease the sick persons pain for a few moments.
Finding the right words of encouragement can be tricky because there is a lot of sensitivity to be given to the message. Saying the wrong thing can cause the sick person to fret or feel even worse.
Here are more than 25 examples of the most appropriate words of encouragement for sick person.
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What Can I Expect If I Have This Condition
Parkinsons disease is a degenerative condition, meaning the effects on your brain get worse over time. However, this condition usually takes time to get worse. Most people have a normal life span with this condition.
You’ll need little to no help in the earlier stages and can keep living independently. As the effects worsen, youll need medication to limit how the symptoms affect you. Most medications, especially levodopa, are moderately or even very effective once your provider finds the minimum dose you need to treat your symptoms.
Most of the effects and symptoms are manageable with treatment, but the treatments become less effective and more complicated over time. Living independently will also become more and more difficult as the disease worsens.
How long does Parkinsons disease last?
Parkinsons disease isnt curable, which means its a permanent, life-long condition.
Whats the outlook for Parkinsons disease?
Parkinson’s disease isn’t fatal, but the symptoms and effects are often contributing factors to death. The average life expectancy for Parkinson’s disease in 1967 was a little under 10 years. Since then, the average life expectancy has increased by about 55%, rising to more than 14.5 years. That, combined with the fact that Parkinson’s diagnosis is much more likely after age 60, means this condition doesn’t often affect your life expectancy by more than a few years .
Words Of Encouragement For Sick Person Who Just Got Diagnosed With A Terrible Illness
Who wants to hear that they are terribly sick? You can imagine how the sick person must feel after receiving this news. Theres not much you can do, but be kind and share good thoughts. Here are 13 words of encouragement for sick person who just got diagnosed with a terrible illness:
I know you are worried about this diagnosis, but youve always been a fighter. Youre the bravest person I know, and you will get through this. I have faith in you!Dont be sad about what you cant change. I want you to find comfort in knowing that this is something you can manage. You can work towards staying healthy. Plus, youre not alone. Whenever you stumble, I will be there to pick you up.This is definitely a low point, and its something we didnt see coming. However, Im not going to allow this unfortunate disease to get in the way of our goals. Weve got this!Did you know that most people with your condition live full, long lives? As long as we take care of it now, youll be fine. Dont worry, Im here for you.I know you must be having a tough time, but I want you to know that I am here for you. Would you like me to come with you to your next doctors visit for support?What can I do to be helpful right now? For anything you need, Im there for you, and I hope you know that.I just heard about your cancer diagnosis. How are you managing? Im always here to talk.
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How To Provide Support
Please read over the list if you have Parkinsons hopefully, you can use it to remind yourself of some common goals to counter your Parkinsons. If you are a friend of someone living with Parkinsons, here is a chance to help. If you can spare a few minutes every-now-and-then, please use the checklist to visit your sedentary friend with Parkinsons. Your goal is to help them re-activate and re-engage in their life.