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Neurologists agree that adherence to the prescribed treatment is paramount. Since Parkinson’s disease is a progressive illness, treatment needs to be adjusted over time and the patient should, along with his or her neurologist, be able to evaluate his or her condition as a result. The purpose of this type of care is to keep the patient in his or her normal environment for as long as possible.
This care for Parkinson’s disease requires regular contact with the patient’s doctor or specialist. It is also associated with an increase in the likelihood of urinary infections, which could temporarily aggravate the condition. Finally, regular physiotherapy sessions should be prescribed in order to stretch the limbs, as should speech therapy sessions in order to maintain speech.
PARKINSON’S DISEASE IN EVERYDAY LIFE
Parkinson’s disease requires major changes to be made in everyday habits. The most simple tasks can become the most difficult ones. Eating, moving, going to bed, driving and getting dressed can require significant effort, both on an intellectual level and on a physical level. The treatments can be influenced by monitoring, and advice and consultation from the neurologist will be indispensable for performing certain actions.
Taking medications can mitigate symptoms, but other measures related to lifestyle are also important:
- Keeping up physical activity is very important. Physical exercise increases mobility, the coordination of movements and most of all balance.
- A diet that is particularly low in protein is sometimes suggested to certain Parkinson’s disease patients in order to limit interactions with levodopa. A diet that limits the chance of constipation is also recommended.
- A regular routine is also recommendable for Parkinson’s disease patients. Regular sleeping patterns, meals, resting every day and activities will slow down the progression of the disease. This will allow the patient to monitor his or her own disease.
- Complying with treatment schedules becomes essential due to the motor problems.
Parkinson’s disease may also result in changes to the lives of the family and friends of sufferers. A patient with Parkinson’s disease will increasingly have problems in getting around: the condition may also require special facilities being installed in the home and potentially result in home care being necessary.
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Last updated: 23/07/2018
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