Parkinson's Articles

    ​
  • The Language of Parkinson's: Understanding Parkinson's Terminology  - Before my diagnosis, I knew next to nothing about Parkinson's disease (PD). I soon discovered that PD has its own language. Some of the terms I was soon to become familiar with were: dyskinesia, dystonia, bradykinesia, deep brain stimulation (DBS), basal ganglia, essential tremor, micrographia, parkinsonism, substantia nigra, dysphagia, levodopa, carbidopa, dopamine agonist, facial masking, akinesia, COMT inhibitors, globus pallidus, Lewy bodies, "off" and "on" periods, etc. Let me share with you… Read more
  • Parkinson’s Anxiety - It is important to note that anxiety is not simply a reaction to the diagnosis of Parkinson's, but is instead a part of the disease itself, caused by changes in the brain chemistry of the brain. ... Anxiety Attacks: Anxiety, or panic, attacks usually start suddenly with a sense of severe physical and emotional distress. Read more here: https://www.parkinson.org/Understanding-Parkinsons/Symptoms/Non-Movement-Symptoms/Anxiety    
    • Tip to help manage anxiety – Try a ‘butterfly hug’! The process is simple and can be done anytime, anywhere you choose.  It can help you induce a sense of safety and calm and empower you to self-comfort and self-soothe.  It can also foster your resilience and to allay any disturbing feelings that come up.   Most importantly, it can help to ground your awareness in the present moment. Anxiety symptoms are always related to future worrying so any symptom management that helps to ground people to the present moment also helps to manage anxiety.  Here is how it’s done:
    • Sit with your back straight.  Do abdominal breathing. Imagine you have a little balloon in your stomach that you inflate and deflate, slowly, deeply, smoothly.
    • ​Observe what is happening in your mind, emotions and body as you would observe clouds in the sky.
    • Cross your hands over your chest so that the middle finger of each hand is placed below your collarbone.  The rest of your fingers will touch your upper chest.  Your hands and fingers are as vertical as possible (pointing more toward your neck than your arms.  You can interlock your thumbs.
    • Alternate the movement of your hands, right, left, simulating the flapping wings of a butterfly.
    • Continue to breathe slowly and deeply, observing whatever is going through your mind and body (thoughts, images, sounds, odors, emotions and physical sensations) without changing, avoiding or judging anything.  Observe it like clouds passing by.
    • The butterfly is an ancient symbol of transformation, so let’s transform the anxiety into control over your own body!  Read more: https://saferelationshipsmagazine.com/the-butterfly-hug
  • Another Tip… try Ice Cubes for a panic attack - This technique can help you divert your attention away from a panic attack, especially if you're in the throes of a particularly intense attack. Take out an ice cube and hold it to your hand for as long as you can (you can put the cube in a paper towel). Then, place the ice cube on your other hand.  Read more: https://psychcentral.com/lib/how-to-halt-and-minimize-panic-attacks/ ​
  • Levodopa-Induced Dyskinesias Reversed in Gene Therapy Study - Levodopa-induced dyskinesias are a debilitating side effect of long-term use of levodopa therapy for up to 90% of people with Parkinson’s. This study investigated whether ‘dimming’ a gene might be able to transform PD treatments… Keep Reading.
  • The PD Gut-Brain Connection  - Only about 44% of levodopa makes it to the brain. This study sought to decipher which molecular parts of our gut might be responsible for reducing the amount of levodopa that makes its way to the brain… Keep Reading.​
  • The Language of Parkinson's: Understanding Parkinson's Terminology  - Before my diagnosis, I knew next to nothing about Parkinson's disease (PD). I soon discovered that PD has its own language. Some of the terms I was soon to become familiar with were: dyskinesia, dystonia, bradykinesia, deep brain stimulation (DBS), basal ganglia, essential tremor, micrographia, parkinsonism, substantia nigra, dysphagia, levodopa, carbidopa, dopamine agonist, facial masking, akinesia, COMT inhibitors, globus pallidus, Lewy bodies, "off" and "on" periods, etc. Let me share with you… Read more
  • ​​​​PD Wise, Parkinson’s Disease Stories and Wisdom - https://pdwise.com/  PD WISE was started by two friends, Allan Cole and Chris Tracey, in Austin, Texas!  They were diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s disease. They have discovered the importance of forming and nurturing personal connections with others who live with Parkinson’s, and also of learning about others’ experiences with the disease. This FREE website is for sharing personal stories, experiences, and wisdom gained from living with Parkinson’s, PD WISE aims to encourage these connections and opportunities for learning. I encourage you to subscribe to learn more on how to live a wise life with PD.  Again, FREE to  subscribe   PD Wise  more info
  • Finding Parkinson’s Answers in a Sea of Information – I found this really interesting quick read.  several organizations provide research, support, education, and services to make living with Parkinson’s more manageable. These are the sources you want in your Parky Toolbox when you are first diagnosed. Why? They are reputable and have the latest, up-to-date information.  Finding Answers in a Sea of Information   and Parkinson’s Forum Offers Patients and Caregivers Place to Learn, Share, and Foster Community
  • Parkinson’s and Slowing Down - “Wherever I look, people are hurrying to get somewhere…anywhere…and why?" This is a great thought provoking article written by Allan Cole is a professor in The Steve Hicks School of Social Work at The University of Texas at Austin. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2016, at the age of 48, he serves on the Board of Directors at Power for Parkinson’s, a non-profit organization that provides free exercise, dance, and singing classes for people living with Parkinson’s disease in Central Texas, and globally via instructional videos. He also serves as a Community Advocate for ParkinsonsDisease.net, writing columns about living well with Parkinson’s. He is author or editor of 10 books on a range of topics related to bereavement, anxiety, and spirituality. Currently, he is writing a book on counseling people with Parkinson’s disease.  Click here: Parkinson’s and Slowing Down  
  • Coffee and Parkinson’s: Protection in the Making? - For years, coffee consumption has been suggested to play a protective role in developing PD. However, it was never clear what exactly in coffee had this effect. This study suggests that two compounds, caffeine and the fatty acid EHT, work together to protect against alpha- synuclein clumps and dopamine neuron loss in two different PD models of mice. Read more here: https://www.parkinson.org/blog/science-news/coffee-and-parkinsons-protection-in-the-making
  • Hyperthermia: Too Hot for Your Health - During the summer, it is important for everyone, especially older adults and people with chronic medical conditions, to be aware of the dangers of hyperthermia.  Hyperthermia is an abnormally high body temperature caused by a failure of the heat-regulating mechanisms in the body to deal with the heat coming from the environment. Heat stroke, heat syncope (sudden dizziness after prolonged exposure to the heat), heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat fatigue are common forms of hyperthermia. Read more: hyperthermia-too-hot​
  • Ask the MD: Stem Cells and Parkinson’s Disease - Research on stem cells and Parkinson’s is incredibly active — scientists are using stem cells to learn about disease and develop treatments, and trials testing stem cell therapies in people with Parkinson’s are underway. There’s possibility in stem cells, but much work remains to evaluate their safety and benefit. Watch the Michael J Fox Foundation video to learn the facts about stem cells and their potential role in Parkinson’s.  Click here
  • Can You Die from Parkinson's Disease? - A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD), like any other chronic and incurable disease, can be life-altering, scary, and nerve-wracking. There are a lot of misconceptions about PD, and being aware of misinformation about the disease is helpful to have an accurate outlook about the disease and prognosis. One of the myths about PD is that it’s a death sentence; this is not true. Knowing the facts about PD and how to live with the condition is crucial to living a full life with PD and being an active participant in your care. Many people think PD automatically means a shorter lifespan, but this isn’t necessarily true. The area is under-researched, and the research that has been done has yielded variable results. A study done at the Mayo Clinic found that.. . Read more
  • The first thing to understand is that elders experience different symptoms compared to young or middle-aged adults and those symptoms can be much more severe. Click here to read more: UTIs and Dementia in Seniors: Impact and Treatment OptionsWithout rapid diagnosis and treatment, UTIs can cause serious side effects like delirium and can even lead to kidney infections and sepsis.  Urinary tract infections (UTI) in elders with dementia can be challenging to diagnose. Learn how UTIs affect seniors and what treatment options can help prevent recurring infections.UTIs and Dementia in Seniors: Impact and Treatment Options - 
  • Constipation Anyone? – In patients with Parkinson’s disease, the major cause of constipation is that the nervous system control of the gut slows down due to the effects of the disease, resulting in the slowing down of gut movement and leading to constipation.  This article is very information with suggestions for prevention and treatment.  parkinsons-disease-combating-constipation/  and click on  Nutrition link for  4 Recipes to Put More Fiber in Your Diet!
  • Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and Parkinson’s   - Restless Leg Syndrome is a neurological disorder that results in an uncontrollable urge to move one’s legs. This syndrome typically can disrupt an individual’s sleep or rest period. While symptoms usually take place during still and quiet times or in moments of sleep, those who battle Restless Leg Syndrome experience involuntary movements throughout the day. Click here to read more and/or watch video: https://www.pmdalliance.org/2019/07/23/addressing-restless-leg-syndrome/
  • It’s Parkinson’s - It’s frustrating, and I do grieve the things I’ve lost to this disease — not just speech and balance, but all the things that were mine to use and refine and are now gone or on their way out.   Frustrated and Angry? It’s Not People, It’s Parkinson’s
  • What Not to Say to Someone with Parkinson’s Disease - Not all people with Parkinson’s disease experience the same symptoms. For example, I am most affected by bradykinesia, poor fine motor skills, incontinence, and fatigue. I was inspired to write this column based on my personal experiences after I read Sherri Woodbridge’s column, “What to Say to Someone with Parkinson’s Disease.” Most people don’t know what to say … Read more: What Not to Say to Someone with Parkinson’s Disease
  • Taking care of Parkinson’s “Do’s and Don’ts” - This presentation will provide an insight into what those living with Parkinson’s should know to take very good care of themselves. We will discuss medications to avoid and how to prepare for a visit with the neurologist to make it most impactful. Lastly, we will discuss do’s and don’ts when being admitted to a hospital or preparing for surgery with anesthesia. This webinar has been archived.  Click this link to view:   https://www.parkinsonvoiceproject.org/ShowContent.aspx?i=2260  
  • Plan Ahead with Parkinson’s to Protect Your Assets – This webinar discusses the financial and legal planning aspects of care for people living with Parkinson’s. Experts share how identifying risks -- such as identity theft and financial abuse -- and creating actionable plans today, will help protect your assets tomorrow. Click on this link to see the archive: https://www.michaeljfox.org/webinars  or  www.michaeljfox.org/webinar/plan-ahead-protect-your-assets  
  • Speaking to the Heart:  A Story of Connection and a Meaningful Life—Everyone needs someone in their life — someone who is not afraid to bend down and speak to the heart of another who is hurting.  Someone who will take the time to show them that they are loved and that their life has value and meaning.  Someone who knows that although words remain unspoken, walking is nonexistent, and blank stares are mistaken for someone who has checked out of life,we are still very much alive. https://parkinsonsnewstoday.com/2019/05/06/power-connection-parkinsons-meaningful-life-joni-eareckson-tada/
  • ​The Michael J. Fox Foundation’s (MJFF) 2019 Spring/Summer newsletter — On the cover, a new study reveals that Parkinson’s disease (PD) costs our nation over $50 billion a year.  Inside,l earn about the research that may help reduce the economic burden and hear from patients, scientists, advocates and athletes leading the charge. Download the newsletter (click here) and read the following stories about how we’ll speed progress:
                 ✓ Emerging Drug Targets:  Taking More Shots on Goal—Each time scientists uncover a new finding that helps us define the causes of Parkinson’s, they give us a potential new target for drugs to treat it.
                 ✓ Bringing More Therapies to More People—In the last five years, nine new drugs and three devices have been approved to treat Parkinson’s disease, and many more are in the pipeline.
                ✓ Boost Your Brain Health—In addition to funding new treatments for Parkinson’s, here are five easy tasks you can check off your list that will get you on the path to improving your brain health today. In the first quarter of2019 alone, MJFF awarded over $30 million to researchers worldwide and we aren’t slowing down. We are grateful for  your support that helps fund research to improve the quality of life for millions of  patients and their loved ones.
  • Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) vs. Parkinson’s:  What's the Difference?—Both multiple system atrophy (MSA) and Parkinson’s disease are degenerative diseases of the nervous system that affect movement and worsen over time.  Their early signs and symptoms are generally quite similar, so it can be difficult to tell them apart, especially in their early days.  In general, both diseases show up and progress differently in different people.  Some people get worse faster than others, and patients come to the doctor for the first time with... Read More Here ​
  • A Possible New Gait Way:  Spinal Cord Stimulation — Medications, such as levodopa, rarely help with these specific motor symptoms, while deep brain stimulation (DBS) results are limited and unpredictable for these particular symptoms. The fact is, current PD medications, therapies or surgical procedures do not effectively address this debilitating unmet need. This lack of options might be changing, due to an intervention called spinal cord stimulation (SCS). Surgically implanted, SCS is a device that alters nerve activity by sending a low-voltage electrical current to select areas ofthe spinal cord. Read More.
  • TIPS for Parkinson’s on Movement—This 6-minute video has great information for basic, everyday movements, such as getting in and out of bed or walking around in a curve, may pose a challenge for patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease.  The tips to cope with movement difficulties are from a physiotherapist. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qo7kXKgo2AE&feature=youtube
  • Breathing Exercises to Reduce Stress & Anxiety — Focusing on the breath is a technique used to help calm the mind and reduce stress and anxiety.  There are many forms of breathing exercises. In this video, renowned naturopath Megan Taylor guides you through four-square breathing, also known as box breathing or square breathing. Click here: Breathing Exercises to Reduce Stress & Anxiety
  • Speech and Swallowing issues with Parkinson’s—About 75 percent of people with PD experience changes in speech and voice at some point.  Parkinson’s Foundation has an educational book, Speech and Swallowing, addresses these issues, tips for managing them, at-home exercises and identifies the treatments and specialists that can help.You can download this book, in .pdf format by clicking on this link: https://parkinson.org/pd-library/books/speech-swallowing
  • Vision Issues and Parkinson’s—What are the most common visual symptoms when it comes to PD? How are they diagnosed and treated? Neuro-ophthalmologist Dan Gold, DO, answers the top vision questions in his slide presentation. Click here: https://www.parkinson.org/sites/default/files/slides_pdeb_vision_0302315.pdf
  • Chronic ​​Pain:  An Invisible Symptom of PD—When thinking about PD, some of the symptoms that come to mind the quickest are visible issues, like tremor, shuffling gait, speech difficulties, or rigidity.  However, pain is another common symptom that is often forgotten about or underestimated because it’s not obviously seen.  Pain is an invisible symptom, meaning that those around an individual in pain may not be able to notice their discomfort at first glance...Read More Here:  Chronic Pain:  An Invisible Symptom of PD 
  • Ketogenic Diet or Low-Fat or MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention) Diet for Parkinson’s—Which one do you choose? Research has revealed that PD patients who maintained a low-fat or ketogenic diet for 8 weeks.  Both diet groups improved in motor and nonmotor symptoms; however, the ketogenic group showed greater improvements in nonmotor symptoms.  However, there is no single “Parkinson’s diet!” Dietary recommendations should be based on an individual’s medical conditions and medications, activity level, etc.  Treat diet like medication —don’t make significant changes without first discussing with your physician and dietitian.  Here are some interesting articles to learn more and discuss with your doctor
✓  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6175383
✓ https://www.drperlmutter.com/ketogenic-diet-dramatically-improves-parkinsons-disease/ 
  • Living with Dementia—Dementia causes problems with thinking, memory, and reasoning.  It happens when the parts of the brain used for learning ,memory, decision making, and language are damaged or diseased.  Dementia is a group of symptoms caused by other conditions.  Doctors have identified many other conditions that can cause dementia or dementialike symptoms. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/types-dementia 
  • Nature Walks and Gardening Improve Overall Health— One doctor told me, “Your strong history of exercise and nature has kept Parkinson’s at bay.”  I was an avid hiker, cyclist, and rock collector in my youth.  As I headed into my gray-haired years with Parkinson’s disease (PD) … Read more: parkinsonsnewstoday.com/nature-walks-gardening-health
​