The substantia nigra is the part of the brain that controls movement. The complex nature of this part of the brain makes it susceptible to nerve cell degradation, a condition called Parkinson’s disease. The impairment and death of nerve cells due to this disease cause reduced dopamine production leading to unintended or uncontrollable movements. Patients experience Falls Church movement disorders symptoms like shaking and stiffness that hinder their productivity. It is important to seek professional management of your Parkinson’s disease to address the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the substantia nigra and thus improve symptoms.
The significance of dopamine in your body
Your brain makes dopamine, which assists in memory, movement, motivation, mood, and attention. Dopamine also causes the relaxation of blood vessels and promotes salt and urine excretion. Low dopamine levels cause feelings of fatigue, unmotivated, and sadness. Other symptoms of reduced dopamine levels include sleep problems and reduced sex drive. Inadequate dopamine disrupts its delicate balance with other neurotransmitters causing movement disorders like Parkinson’s that cause tremors, rigidity, and impaired balance and coordination.
What causes Parkinson’s disease?
The main reason you are experiencing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease is due to reduced dopamine production in the substantia nigra. Although clinicians understand the cause of this movement disorder, there is no clear understanding of what triggers the death of neurons. Various risk factors like exposure to environmental toxins and genes predispose patients to this medical concern.
Diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease
The diagnostic protocols for Parkinson’s disease require professional intervention. It is important to collaborate with a certified physician who understands the significance of reviewing your medical and family history to reveal any predispositions to the disease. Your doctor may also recommend a neurological examination that involves an imaging scan called the DAT scan that helps your neurologists view your dopamine system.
Reviewing your symptoms is insufficient to confirm a Parkinson’s diagnosis, especially since various neurological disorders share symptoms with Parkinson’s disease. In this case, response to drug treatment will help your doctor confirm the root cause of your concerns. Your doctor may recommend Parkinson’s medication to treat your symptoms and confirm your diagnosis upon symptomatic improvement.
How do doctors treat Parkinson’s disease?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease. However, your doctor may recommend treatment to relieve your symptoms. The following are the most effective treatments for Parkinson’s disease:
- Medication
Your doctor may recommend certain medicines for your condition. Parkinson’s medication like Levodopa can increase dopamine levels in the brain and help relieve symptoms. Some patients report side effects like nausea upon taking Levodopa. Your doctor may recommend taking Carbidopa along with Levodopa to minimize the side effects of the therapy. It is critical to consult your doctor about any side effects you are experiencing to make appropriate adjustments. Do not discontinue medication without telling your doctor.
- Deep brain stimulation
Your doctor may implant electrodes into your brain to stimulate movement. You can only undergo deep brain stimulation if medication has failed to resolve your concerns. Contact Integrated Neurology Services if you experience tremors, slowness of movement, and rigidity to begin appropriate Parkinson’s treatment to restore your productivity.
