Nervous System: Diseases Flashcards
Parkinson's Disease,
Define Parkinsons disease
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder caused by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, particularly in the substantia nigra.
Identify the primary cause of Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease is primarily caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra, which affects motor control.
Describe the role of dopamin in Parkinson’s disease
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter responsible for transmitting signals that coordinate smooth and controlled muscle movements. In Parkinson’s disease, reduced dopamine levels lead to motor symptoms.
What are the key motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease?
Tremor (shaking, usually in hands or fingers)
Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
Rigidity (stiffness in muscles)
Postural instability (balance and coordination problems)
Explain non-motor symptoms of Parkinsons Disease
Non-motor symptoms include mood disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety), cognitive impairment, sleep disturbances, loss of smell, constipation, and fatigue.
What is the role of the substrantia nigra in Parkinson’s disease?
The substantia nigra is a part of the brain responsible for producing dopamine. Degeneration in this area causes the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
How is Parkinson’s disease diagnosed?
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on medical history, physical examination of symptoms, and ruling out other conditions. There are no definitive laboratory tests for Parkinson’s disease.
Identify one brain imaging technique used to support a diagnonsis of parkinson’s disease
Dopamine transporter (DaT) scans can be used to visualize dopamine activity and confirm the loss of dopamine-producing neurons.
describe the progression of Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease progresses gradually over time, starting with mild symptoms like tremors or stiffness, and advancing to severe motor impairment, loss of independence, and significant non-motor symptoms.
What treatments are available for Parkinson’s disease?
Medication: Levodopa, dopamine agonists, and MAO-B inhibitors.
Surgery: Deep brain stimulation (DBS).
Therapy: Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.
Explain the role of Levodopa in Parkinson’s disease treatment
Levodopa is converted to dopamine in the brain, helping to restore dopamine levels and improve motor symptoms such as tremors and stiffness.
What are potential side effects of levodopa?
Long-term use can lead to side effects such as dyskinesia (involuntary movements) and fluctuations in symptom control (on-off phenomenon).
What is deep brain stimulation (DBS)
DBS is a surgical treatment for Parkinson’s disease where electrodes are implanted in the brain to send electrical impulses, reducing motor symptoms.
How can physiotherapy benefit patients with Parkinson’s disease?
Physiotherapy helps improve mobility, balance, posture, and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and enhancing quality of life.
What lifestyle changes can support managing Parkinson’s disease?
Regular exercise to maintain mobility and flexibility.
Balanced diet to improve overall health.
Speech therapy to address communication difficulties.
Identify complications of advanced Parkinson’s disease
Complications include severe motor impairment, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), dementia, infections, and immobility-related issues such as bedsores.
Explain the importance of multidisciplinary care in Parkinson’s disease
Multidisciplinary care involves collaboration between neurologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and social workers to provide holistic support.
What is the Hoehn and Yahr scale?
The Hoehn and Yahr scale is used to classify the severity of Parkinson’s disease, ranging from stage 1 (mild symptoms) to stage 5 (severe disability and immobility).
How does Parkinson’s disease impact quality of life?
Parkinson’s disease can affect daily living due to motor and non-motor symptoms, reducing independence and causing emotional and social challenges.
Why is ongoing research important for Parkinson’s disease?
Research is crucial to understanding the causes of Parkinson’s, improving treatments, and potentially finding a cure for the disease.
What are the key components of a Parkinson’s disease treatment plan?
Medications: Dopaminergic therapies, MAO-B inhibitors.
Lifestyle adjustments: Regular exercise, diet.
Therapies: Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy.
Surgical options: Deep brain stimulation (DBS).
Psychological support: Managing mental health (e.g., depression, anxiety).
How are non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease managed?
Depression/Anxiety: Antidepressants or psychological therapies.
Sleep disorders: Sleep hygiene strategies or medications.
Autonomic dysfunction: Treat low blood pressure, bladder issues, or constipation.
What is the role of a multidisciplinary team in Parkinson’s disease management?
Neurologist: Diagnosis and treatment plan.
Physiotherapist: Mobility and balance training.
Speech therapist: Communication and swallowing support.
Psychologist/Psychiatrist: Emotional well-being.
Dietitian: Nutritional advice to address specific needs.
