Allan Border reveals he has Parkinson’s as Australian cricketing legend begins his battle
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over many years, according to the NHS website.
What are the symptoms?
The NHS says there are three main symptoms, including shaking or shaking, slowness of movement and muscle stiffness.
Other symptoms include balance problems, loss of smell, nerve pain, excessive sweating and dizziness.
Some people may also experience sleep deprivation, excessive saliva production, and difficulty swallowing, causing malnutrition and dehydration.
What are the first signs?
Symptoms can begin gradually, sometimes starting with a barely noticeable tremor in just one part of the body.
In the early stages, people may show little or no expression and may not wave their arms when they walk.
Speech may also become soft or slurred, with the condition worsening over time.
What are the causes?
Some scientists believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors causes Parkinson’s disease.
It occurs after a person experiences a loss of nerve cells in part of their brain.
However, it is not known why the loss of nerve cells associated with the condition occurs, but research is ongoing into possible causes.
Scientists say the genetic factor can increase a person’s risk of developing the disease and therefore run in families.
Other factors attributed to causing the condition include environmental issues such as pollution, although such links are inconclusive, the NHS says.
How is it diagnosed?
No test can tell if a person has the disease, but doctors can make a diagnosis based on symptoms, medical history, and physical exam.
A specialist will ask the person to write or draw, walk or speak to check for general signs of the condition.
They can even check for difficulty making facial expressions and slowness of limb movements.
How many people are affected?
There are approximately 145,000 people living with Parkinson’s disease in the UK, according to the Parkinson’s UK charity.
What happens when someone is diagnosed?
It is a legal requirement to contact the DVLA, according to the charity, as a person diagnosed must have a medical or driving assessment.
The organization also advises people to contact insurers and inquire about available financial support.
People are also encouraged to exercise more.
Can it be treated?
While there is no cure, a number of treatments are available to help reduce symptoms.
The main remedies are medicines, exercise, therapy and surgery, which can help people in different ways.
What medications are available and what are the side effects?
Medication can be helpful in improving the main symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, such as trembling and movement problems.
There are three main types that are commonly used: levodopa, dopamine agonist, or a MAO-B inhibitor. Each can affect people in different ways.
The drugs have some side effects, including impulsive and compulsive behaviors, hallucinations, trouble sleeping, and blood pressure changes.
What therapy is available?
There are a variety of therapies available to people with Parkinson’s through the NHS.
Among them are physical therapy to relieve muscle stiffness, occupational therapy to help with daily tasks, and speech and language coaching.
Does this change the way you live?
Most people’s life expectancy won’t change much, although more advanced symptoms can lead to increased disability and poor health.
It can also cause some cognitive problems and changes in mood and mental health.
Those with Parkinson’s are encouraged to exercise more often, with scientists saying 2.5 hours of exercise a week is enough to slow the progression of symptoms.