Why is World Parkinson's Day celebrated?

World Parkinson's Day is a significant occasion that gives us the opportunity to raise awareness about a complex and debilitating neurological disease that affects millions of people around the world. Celebrated each year on April 11, this day seeks to educate society about Parkinson's, highlight the challenges faced by people living with this disease, and promote research to find better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

What is Parkinson's?

Parkinson's is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that mainly affects the central nervous system. It is characterized by the progressive degeneration of nerve cells in a specific region of the brain called the substantia nigra. This degeneration leads to a decrease in the production of dopamine, a key neurotransmitter that plays a critical role in the control of movement and muscle coordination.

Parkinson's symptoms

Parkinson's symptoms vary from person to person and can develop slowly over time. Some of the most common symptoms include:

Tremor : Rhythmic, involuntary movements, usually in the hands, arms or legs, which may worsen when the person is at rest.
Muscle stiffness: Muscles can become stiff and tight, making mobility and flexibility difficult.
Bradykinesia: Reduction in the speed of voluntary movements, which can make everyday tasks, such as dressing or eating, more difficult.
Postural instability: Difficulty maintaining balance and posture, which increases the risk of falls.
Changes in writing: Writing may become smaller and harder to read, known as micrographia.
Sleep disorders: Problems falling asleep or staying asleep during the night.
Speech disorders: Monotonous or slurred speech, difficulty articulating words clearly.

It is important to note that Parkinson's can affect other body functions besides movement, such as cognition, mood, and autonomic function.

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosing Parkinson's can be challenging, as there is no single test to confirm the disease. Doctors generally rely on the patient's medical history, observed symptoms, and a complete neurological evaluation. Sometimes additional tests, such as MRIs or CT scans, may be done to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.

Once diagnosed, Parkinson's treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the patient's quality of life. This may include:

Medications: Medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain, such as levodopa, are the mainstay of treatment to control the motor symptoms of Parkinson's.
Physical and occupational therapy: Regular exercise, physical therapy, and occupational therapy can help maintain muscle strength, flexibility, and mobility.
Speech and language therapy: To address changes in speech and communication.
Surgery: In advanced and treatment-resistant cases, deep brain stimulation may be an option to control motor symptoms.
Importantly, Parkinson's treatment is individualized and may require adjustments over time to address changes in the patient's symptoms and needs.

Impact on Everyday Life

The impact of Parkinson's on patients' daily lives is profound and multifaceted. Beyond the physical symptoms that affect mobility and muscle control, the disease also leaves a significant mark on the emotional, social and psychological well-being of those who suffer from it.

On a physical level, Parkinson's motor symptoms, such as tremor, muscle rigidity, and bradykinesia, can make basic daily activities challenging. Simple tasks like getting out of bed, getting dressed, eating, or writing can become major obstacles. The loss of independence in these activities can be especially difficult to accept, as it challenges personal autonomy and dignity.

On an emotional level, Parkinson's can generate a variety of responses, from frustration and anger to sadness and depression. Constantly battling symptoms, coupled with uncertainty about the disease's progress, can lead to significant anxiety and stress. Additionally, changes in brain chemistry due to the disease can contribute to mood disorders, further exacerbating the emotional impact.

On the social level, Parkinson's can lead to the loss of meaningful connections and relationships. Changes in speech and facial expression can make communication difficult, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Participating in social activities and maintaining personal relationships can become more challenging, which in turn can affect self-esteem and quality of life.

Research and Future Hope

Although there is still no cure for Parkinson's, scientific research continues to advance the understanding of the disease and the development of new treatment strategies. From studies into the underlying mechanisms of the disease to clinical trials of innovative therapies, scientists are working hard to find new ways to prevent, treat, and even reverse Parkinson's in the future.

Additionally, World Parkinson's Day is an opportunity to advocate for greater public awareness and improved access to healthcare and support resources for people affected by the disease. By educating society about Parkinson's and challenging the stigmas and misperceptions associated with the disease, we can create a more compassionate and supportive environment for those living with Parkinson's and their families.

World Parkinson's Day reminds us of the importance of coming together as a global community to address the challenges posed by this neurodegenerative disease. By raising awareness, promoting research and providing support to those affected by Parkinson's, we can work together to improve the quality of life of those affected and move towards a future where Parkinson's is a disease of the past.