An estimated 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease each year, with many struggling to cope with their progressive symptoms. At Michigan Neurology Associates & PC, with offices throughout the Metro Detroit area in Clinton Township, St. Clair Shores, and Utica, Michigan, the board-certified medical team offers compassionate care to help you manage symptoms like shaking and limited mobility using a custom treatment plan designed to meet your needs. Whether you need medications or physical therapy, you can rely on the caring staff to help you thrive with Parkinson’s disease. Schedule your evaluation online or by phone today.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder that affects your nervous system. The condition develops gradually, triggered by the breakdown and death of nerve cells in the brain.
Many of the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease stem from the loss of dopamine, the chemical message that controls your movements. It declines due to the death of dopamine-producing neurons.
Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease often start gradually and in the earliest stages may go unnoticed. As the severity of symptoms increase, you may begin experiencing issues with muscle control and mobility.
Common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include:
Movements you perform automatically, such as blinking or smiling, may also become noticeably difficult.
There’s no specific test that can diagnose Parkinson’s disease. The experienced neurologists at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC perform a thorough evaluation of your overall health and a review of your symptoms. They also discuss your personal medical history and the history of your family.
To rule out other underlying medical conditions, you may need to undergo blood work or imaging tests, like a CT scan or MRI of your brain.
Medications are available that can reduce symptoms of Parkinson’s disease to give you a higher quality of life. Some medications act as a replacement for dopamine, which can improve your mobility and overall functionality.
Interestingly, medications may also be a part of the diagnostic process. By prescribing a certain medication, your Michigan Neurology Associates & PC physician can determine if this type of therapy has any effect on your symptoms to confirm Parkinson’s disease.
It’s also important that you continue to eat a healthy diet and stay physically active to improve the strength and health of your muscles. Your physician can assess your fall risk as symptoms progress to prevent additional medical complications and injuries. Physical therapy may also help you slow down the progress of Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s disease can take an emotional toll, and to ensure you have the support you need, the staff at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC offer resources to help you cope, including the services of a staff psychologist.
If you develop shaking or difficulties walking, don’t delay an evaluation. Call the office nearest you or use online booking to schedule a consultation at Michigan Neurology Associates & PC today.
