Parkinson`s disease is a progressive disease of the central nervous system in which there is faulty transmission of impulses from one neuron to another.
Arteriosclerosis may be a factor in old age. A faint, constant tremor may be the first clue to the onset. The muscles gradually stiffen, and movement is slow and weak. With progression of the disease, the person walks with a shuffling gait and leans forward. Rigid muscles in the face and neck cause drooling, difficulty swallowing, and monotonous and slowed speech.
The face becomes mask-like when the individual can not blink or smile. Increased tremors are evident in the classic “pill rolling” movement of the thumb hitting against the fingers.
Levodopa, or dopamine, is a drug currently used in treatment to help impulses get from one neuron to another and thereby relieve symptoms.
People with Parkinson`s disease must be protected from stress, frustration and tension because these aggravate the symptoms. Nutritional therapy and physical therapy will help the person to lead a more normal life.
Reference :
Reference :
Farrell J : Nursing Care of the Older Person, J.B. Lippincott Company, Philadelphia, 1990.
