What treatment options are currently available for Parkinson’s?

One of the most difficult aspects of neurodegenerative diseases is their chronic nature and lack of a definitive cure. This is the case of the disease Parkinson’swhich is characterized by psychomotor delay, rigidity, tremor and gait disturbances.

It is the most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer and particularly affects older people. Its appearance is gradual and its development is progressive. Although there are currently treatments that make this possible Alleviate symptomsthe disease remains incurable. Therefore, it is referred to as symptomatic treatment, which aims to improve the patient’s quality of life.

There are various strategies to control Parkinson’s disease. One of the most important is this pharmacological treatment. Dr. Almudena Sánchez, neurologist at the Hospital Clínic Barcelona, ​​​​emphasizes: “Medicines can significantly improve the quality of life, independence and autonomy, even if there is no curative treatment.”

However, this approach is not recommended. in the initial stage and if the disease does not affect the patient’s functionality. If deemed necessary, treatment will be provided Start with low doses and is gradually adjusted to ensure good tolerability.

Furthermore, it is individually tailored to the specific needs of each individual. To treat non-motor symptoms, certain medications are also used: laxatives for constipation, anticholinergics for Urinary tract diseases and antidepressants for depression or apathyamong other things.

Treatment maintained throughout the entire duration of the disease is non-pharmacological. It consists in adopting healthy lifestyle habitsB. a Mediterranean diet, regular exercise and adequate fluid intake.

This also includes specific interventions such as: Speech therapyin patients with speech or swallowing disorders or cognitive stimulation. In addition, some patients may experience vitamin deficiencies, which can be corrected with nutritional supplements.

If, despite observing these indications and medical treatment, the course of the disease does not improve significantly, there is a possibility of surgical therapies.

The most advanced therapy options include Functional neurosurgery – especially deep stimulation – and continuous drug infusions. Although surgery is not indicated in patients over 70 years of age or in patients with cognitive changes or active psychiatric disorders, it may be the most effective treatment if the patient is properly selected.

Serious side effects associated with this procedure are rare: they occur in less than 1% of cases Cerebral hemorrhage derived from the insertion of the electrodes. Behavioral changes may also occur that require special monitoring. On the other hand, pharmacological treatments usually cause other side effects over time.

Ana Cámara, nurse at the Hospital Clínic Barcelona, ​​​​explains: “It is common at the beginning of treatment Stomach problems or nauseaThese effects are in addition to others such as hallucinations, which occur more often in older patients or those with previous cognitive impairments.

Some medications can cause motor fluctuations – fluctuations in mobility throughout the day – and involuntary movements. “Other symptoms, however, such as gambling or hypersexuality“They should be consulted with the healthcare team,” adds Cámara. These behaviors are part of poor impulse control and are more commonly seen in young patients, especially those with a history of addiction.

Although rare and generally treatable, acute complications can occur Medication adjustmentseither by increasing or reducing the dose. Among them are Hyperplexia syndrome – a form of parkinsonism triggered by a reduction in medication -, the absence, loss or cessation of acute movements, episodes of severe involuntary movements or dopamine agonist withdrawal syndrome, which may occur when this type of medication is abruptly stopped.

“There are many avenues of research that can be found in both What is the cause of the disease? “It aims at treatments that can change the course,” explains Dr. Sanchez. One of the most promising is this Gene therapycurrently in the experimental phase, in which a patient’s diseased gene is replaced with a functional version.

In the context of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, this strategy opens up new possibilities. Gene therapy goes beyond relieving symptoms can help restore balance of altered neurotransmitters and promote neuronal survival. However, these therapies are not yet ready for widespread clinical use.

To cope with Parkinson’s disease, this is essential a strong social and emotional support network. Sister Cámara emphasizes: “We recommend a healthy lifestyle, especially not to isolate yourself but to live an active life with your friends and family.” Although Parkinson’s is a difficult disease because of its symptoms, it is not necessarily debilitating and, if well treated, does not reduce life expectancy.