Effective Strategies for Managing Parkinson's Disease
Discover effective strategies to manage Parkinson's disease through medications, diet, and lifestyle changes. Learn about treatment options like levodopa-based therapies, dietary tips to reduce oxidative stress, and exercises to improve mobility and flexibility. These approaches can enhance quality of life for those living with Parkinson's and help mitigate symptoms in the absence of a cure.
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Parkinson's disease affects about one million individuals in our country, with roughly 60,000 new cases annually. This progressive neurological disorder leads to symptoms like tremors, muscle rigidity, and balance issues. While there is no cure yet, various management approaches can improve quality of life. Explore treatment options, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle modifications to better cope with Parkinson's disease.
Management of Parkinson's Disease
Common treatments involve medications combining levodopa and carbidopa, including ONGENTYS®, RYTARY®, and opicapone. ONGENTYS® is designated for patients who experience 'OFF' episodes.
RYTARY® offers a sustained-release mechanism to maintain consistent levodopa levels, improving symptom control. Opicapone acts by inhibiting COMT, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of medications like levodopa and carbidopa on brain function.
Dietary Tips for Parkinson's Management
Eating specific foods can help alleviate symptoms. Antioxidant-rich items such as walnuts, berries, tomatoes, and peppers combat oxidative stress. Incorporating omega-3 sources like soy, flaxseeds, kidney beans, and oysters may boost cognitive function. Conversely, processed and fried foods, including French fries and canned meats, contain high sodium and nitrites, which are detrimental to brain health. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt might negatively influence oxidative levels in the brain, potentially worsening symptoms.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Beyond medical treatments and diet, lifestyle changes are vital. Staying well-hydrated by consuming six to eight glasses of water daily and obtaining adequate vitamin D via sunlight are recommended. Regular physical activities like yoga, Pilates, and light exercises help improve flexibility, strengthen muscles, and alleviate stiffness. Proper rest, including eight hours of sleep, supports recovery and overall well-being, aiding Parkinson's disease management.
