As you age, the risk of health problems will also increase. Parkinson’s disease is a kind of problem that usually affects people who are 60+ years of age. According to the data on Parkinson’s disease statistics, around 7-10 million people are suffering from Parkinson’s disease. In India alone, there are approximately 1 million cases of Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s disease comes with high risk, so it is important to spread awareness about this problem. Therefore, on 11th April, this day is celebrated as World Parkinson’s Day to aware people of this critical problem.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
It is a disease of central nervous system disorders that affects people from old age and leads to difficulty in tremors and movement. This is because, in the brain, there is damage to nerve cells that can lead to a drop in dopamine levels. The symptoms of Parkinson’s disease don’t develop all at once, so make sure to check its symptoms. Although, there is no specific cure for this disease, yet early treatment and medication can reduce its risk.
Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
The most common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease that you must be aware of include:
slurred speech
imbalanced posture
loss of coordination
abnormal shaking of hands
a shorter movement that often leads to dragging of feet
unable to write properly
As the condition gets worse day by day, the symptoms of this disease can also get worse. As a result, it will be difficult for a person to perform daily activities without help. Many people start responding to treatment, and they only experience mild to moderate symptoms. This problem doesn’t directly cause death but it can have a negative impact on the body and can make some people vulnerable to life-threatening infections. However, some people may have a normal life expectancy with advances in treatment.
World Parkinson’s Day 2023
This disease is named after Dr James Parkinson who was the first person to describe Parkinson’s disease in his essay “An Essay on the Shaking Palsy”. In 1870, nervous disorder got this name and in the year 1997, the first World Parkinson’s Day was celebrated. On 11th April 2023, it will mark the 26th anniversary of World Parkinson’s Day. This day was introduced with the collaboration between European Parkinson’s Disease Association and World Health Organisation. This day is celebrated to spread awareness and the treatment of this disease.
What is the color of the ribbon for Parkinson’s?
The color of the ribbon for Parkinson’s disease is grey or silver. The silver ribbon is used to raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease and show support for those who are affected by it.
What is the symbol of Parkinson’s disease?
Since 1980, the awareness of Parkinson’s disease has been associated with a red tulip, which was developed by a Dutch horticulturist with PD in red and white colors. The red tulip was officially launched as the worldwide symbol of Parkinson’s Disease at the 9th World Parkinson’s Disease Day Conference held in Luxembourg in April 2005.
At what age does Parkinson’s start?
Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that typically develops in older adults. The average age of onset is around 60 years old, but it can also affect younger people. Parkinson’s disease that develops before the age of 50 is called “early-onset Parkinson’s disease,” while Parkinson’s disease that develops after age 50 is called “late-onset Parkinson’s disease”. However, it’s important to note that Parkinson’s disease can also affect people in their 30s or 40s, although this is much less common.
Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease
Currently, there is no specific cure option available for Parkinson’s disease. However, treatments are available to get rid of symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease. These treatments include:
medication
support therapies, such as physiotherapy
surgery
You may not need any treatment if it is a starting stage of Parkinson’s disease as symptoms are generally mild. However, you may need daily appointments with your specialist so your condition will be in check.
Conclusion
The blog shares information on World Parkinson’s Day along with symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, and possible treatment options. For more informative blogs, you can subscribe to Personal Care N Heal.
