What role does neurology play in the treatment of Parkinson's disease?
January 21, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Louis Ackermann
Dear Doctor,
My name is Benjamin Schmitt and I have been experiencing symptoms of Parkinson's disease for some time now. I have noticed that my movements are slowing down and I have shaky hands. My balance has also worsened in the past few months, and I am having trouble with everyday tasks. These changes are causing me great concern and significantly impacting my quality of life.
I have considered some treatment options, but I am unsure about the role of neurology in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Can neurology help alleviate my symptoms and improve my quality of life? Are there specific tests or therapies that a neurologist can perform to treat my Parkinson's symptoms?
I would like to learn more about the role of neurology in treating Parkinson's disease and whether it would be beneficial to see a neurologist for a more targeted approach to my symptoms. I am looking for a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to my individual situation, to help me better manage my daily life and improve my quality of life.
Thank you in advance for your support and guidance.
Sincerely,
Benjamin Schmitt
Dear Benjamin Schmitt,
Thank you for your message and trust. I am sorry to hear that you are suffering from Parkinson's symptoms. Parkinson's is a neurological disease caused by the death of nerve cells in the brain, particularly in an area called the Substantia nigra. This leads to a lack of dopamine, an important neurotransmitter responsible for controlling movements and coordination in the body.
Neurology plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson's. A neurologist specializes in diseases of the nervous system, including Parkinson's. Through specific examinations such as clinical evaluation, imaging (e.g. MRI), and specific tests like dopamine transporter scintigraphy, a neurologist can diagnose Parkinson's and monitor the progression of the disease.
In terms of Parkinson's treatment, a neurologist can offer various therapies aimed at relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. These include medications such as Levodopa, dopamine agonists, or MAO-B inhibitors, which increase dopamine levels in the brain. Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy may also be prescribed by a neurologist to address motor and non-motor symptoms.
Furthermore, a neurologist may recommend more advanced interventions such as deep brain stimulation (DBS), where electrodes are implanted in specific areas of the brain to treat symptoms like tremor or movement problems.
It is definitely worthwhile to consult a neurologist if you are experiencing Parkinson's symptoms. A neurologist can provide you with comprehensive and individualized treatment tailored to your specific needs, helping you better manage your daily life.
I hope this information is helpful to you and I am available for any further questions. I wish you all the best on your path to recovery.
Best regards,
Louis Ackermann, Neurologist
