NS - Parkinsons Flashcards
What is Parkinson’s
A progressive disorder that a is cause by degeneration of nerve cells in the part of the brain substantia nigra which controls movement
What does dopamine do
Operators in a delicate balance with other neurotransmitters to help coordinate the millions of nerve and muscle cells involved in movement
How is dopamine linked with Parkinson’s
When the nerve cells die or become impaired they loose the ability to produce dopamine which is a neurotransmitter. Neurotransmitters move across the synapse to transmit and action potential to the next neuron
What happens without enough dopamine / what are the symptoms of Parkinson’s
The balance is disrupted resulting in tremor (trembling in the hands arms legs and jaw) rigidity (stiff limbs) slow movement and impaired balance
What does the drug levodopa do
Increases the amount of dopamine in the brain, blocks the action of other factors ((enzymes) that break down dopamine in the blood to reduce the level lost in the blood and tissues
What is a negative of using levodopa
Does not stop or slow the progression of the disease, it just reduces some of the symptoms
How does deep brain stimulation work
Small electrodes are implanted to provide an electrical impulse to the parts of the brain involved in motor function
Why are electrodes typically implanted on the left side of the brain
This will control the symptoms on the right side of the body and vice versa
How would a physio therapist help treat Parkinson’s
Help with posture and movement problems
How would a a speech and language therapist help with Parkinson’s
Help with swallowing, speech and writing
How would an occupational therapist help with Parkinson’s
Everyday tasks if the become difficult, such as moving around your home
