Parkinson's Disease Flashcards
Define Parkinson’s Disease
A chronic and progressive movement disorder, meaning that the symptoms continue and become worse over time.
PD involves the malfunction and death of nerve cells also known as?
Neurons
Define Dopamine.
A chemical that sends messages to the part of the brain that controls movement and coordination.
Define Neurodegeneration.
Dopamine production decreases which causes a person to gradually loses the ability to control movement.
What is the etiology of Parkinson’s disease?
In most cases, its a combination of genetic susceptibility plus environmental factors.
Determine the risk factors for Parkinson’s.
Age, sex, hereditary, exposure to toxins.
What is the pathology of Parkinson’s disease?
When neurons are injured or die, the most common symptoms are motor and non-motor symptoms.
What are some symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?
Tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia, postural instability, freezing, constipation.
How is Parkinson’s Disease diagnosed?
Rely heavily on medical history and physical examination.
What are treatments for PD with motor symptoms?
Carbidopa/Levodopa, Dopamine Agonists, MAO-B Inhibitor, Amantadine.
Evaluate how lifestyle affects the disease.
Healthy eating, exercise, avoiding falls, daily living activities.
What is the prognosis with PD?
It will worsen overtime; patients will gradually lose control of physical and mental functions.
What are treatments for PD with non-motor symptoms?
Deep brain stimulation, therapy, alternate medicine.
