Why More Than Neurologists Are Needed for Parkinson's

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Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a neurological condition. Hence, it is most likely that the specialist that one sees for its diagnosis and further management would be a neurologist. And if you have access to one, then a neurologist with special interest and/or experience in managing PD is the natural choice.

Quality of Life for Patients with Parkinson's Disease

Note that we are using the word "manage" rather than treat. The reason is that, as of today, Parkinson's has no known cure. Parkinson's Disease-related symptoms and Parkinson’s progressive impact on the brain continue to get worse over the years. However, while living with Parkinson's Disease, the patients and their families would want to ensure that the symptoms are reduced as much as possible, such that the person can carry on with their life. Also, they would want to ensure that quality of life is maintained for as long as possible. With this aim in mind, one may be required to visit more specialists other than a neurologist. The neurologist himself/herself may, in fact, suggest who could help with a specific requirement.

Other Specialists You Might Visit

Your family physician

When you start to see symptoms that seem to be Parkinson's, the first doctor you should ideally visit is your family physician. They will generally know your medical history and will direct you to a neurologist if required. If you are later diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease, the family doctor can then be a regular guiding light for a variety of needs that may arise.

Speech Therapist

Speech impediments, facial expression changes, and language challenges are some commonly faced non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's Disease. A speech therapist can spend a few sessions guiding the patient and the caretaker family member to practice accordingly and thus reduce the impact. He/she can continue the sessions depending on individual requirements.

Occupational Therapist

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When a person’s daily activities, work, or leisure are impacted due to Parkinson's Disease, then an occupational therapist may come in and help them to maintain their independence for a longer duration. These therapists help people with cognitive, physical, or sensory challenges participate in meaningful activities. They may also suggest changes in the home environment to keep the patient safe from falls or make their movements easier. They may teach alternative skills to carry out your regular activities. For example, they may show you how to maintain strength and flexibility in the hand to continue to write legibly. Another example of adaptive skill is slowing down the cursor speed on a computer or phone so that it is easier for the Parkinson's patient to see and control. Click here for more such tips.

Physiotherapist

Exercise is very important for Parkinson's disease patients. A physiotherapist can show you the best exercises suiting your needs, and change them as the condition changes. Also, they can help maintain your balance and good posture despite impairments brought on by Parkinson's Disease.

Psychologist

The long, progressing journey of Parkinson's can have a deep impact on a person’s mental health. Many of them are known to experience anxiety, excessive worry, or even depression. Some may also have memory problems and cognitive difficulties similar to dementia in the later stages of the disease. A trained psychologist can counsel Parkinson's patients and the family to deal with these effects. A calmer mind can aid them accept the condition rather than see it as the end of life. Therapy helps the families to adjust better to constantly evolving relationships with the affected person, as they become more dependent on the family or caregiver.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with the disease, feel free to contact us or read more about WALK to step into a better life with Parkinson's.

Picture credit:

www.Physio.co.uk