Nearly 1 million people in the United States are living with Parkinson’s disease (PD), a number expected to grow to 1.2 million by 2030. During National Parkinson’s Awareness Month, community members are encouraged to learn the warning signs of PD and understand when to consult a physician. Individuals may experience early symptoms without realizing they could be linked to Parkinson’s, making education and awareness key to early diagnosis and treatment.
PD is a chronic, progressive neurological disorder that occurs when brain cells responsible for producing dopamine become damaged or die. Dopamine is a chemical that helps control movement and coordination. As dopamine levels decrease, patients may develop symptoms that affect mobility and daily functioning. PD is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer’s disease and affects more than 10 million people worldwide.
The condition most commonly develops around age 60, although some individuals may experience symptoms earlier. Classic motor symptoms include tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movement and balance difficulties. These symptoms often begin gradually and worsen over time. Due to the slow progression of the disease, symptoms may initially be mild and easy to overlook.
It is important to note that motor symptoms usually appear later in the disease process. In many cases, individuals may experience non-motor symptoms years before movement problems develop. These lesser-known warning signs can include a reduced sense of smell, depression, anxiety, constipation, sleep disturbances or vivid dreams. Some patients may also experience cognitive changes or hallucinations.
Individuals who notice persistent symptoms are encouraged to consult their primary care provider. A physician can evaluate symptoms, rule out other conditions and provide a referral to a neurologist if necessary. Early evaluation allows patients to begin treatment sooner, helping slow the progression of symptoms and improving quality of life.
Both men and women can develop PD, though men are about twice as likely to be diagnosed with the condition. Several factors have been linked to a higher risk of Parkinson’s disease, including increasing age, certain genetic mutations and a history of traumatic brain injury. Researchers continue to study environmental and lifestyle factors that may also play a role.
While there is currently no cure for PD, many treatment options are available to help manage symptoms. Medications that increase or mimic dopamine in the brain are often used to help control tremors and movement difficulties. Physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy may also help patients maintain independence and improve daily functioning. In some cases, surgical procedures may be recommended for individuals with advanced symptoms.
Although PD itself is not typically considered fatal, complications related to the condition can affect overall health and quality of life. With early diagnosis, consistent medical care and an individualized treatment plan, many patients are able to live active and fulfilling lives.
To schedule an appointment with a PMC physician, call 606-430-2235 or visit www.pmcky.org/our-doctors.
Expert Neuroscience Care at PMC
The Eastern Kentucky Neuroscience Center at Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) is among the top treatment centers in Kentucky for neurological disorders such as stroke, chronic migraine and Parkinson’s disease (PD). Neurological disorders affect the brain, spinal cord and nerves throughout the body, often impacting movement, speech, memory and coordination. Since these conditions can significantly affect a patient’s quality of life, timely diagnosis and specialized care are essential.
At the Eastern Kentucky Neuroscience Center, patients have access to a multidisciplinary team of specialists who work together to diagnose and treat complex neurological conditions. This team includes neurologists, neurosurgeons, advanced practice providers, nurses, rehabilitation specialists and imaging experts who collaborate to deliver personalized care.
Advanced diagnostic tools such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, computed tomography (CT) scans and electroencephalograms (EEGs) help physicians identify neurological conditions with speed and accuracy. Imaging technology, neurological testing and comprehensive evaluations allow providers to develop treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs and conditions. These plans may include medication management, minimally invasive procedures, rehabilitation therapy or long-term disease management.
For patients with PD, specialized care focuses on managing symptoms and maintaining independence. Providers work closely with patients to adjust medications, monitor disease progression and recommend therapies that improve mobility, balance and daily function.
Stroke care is another critical component of the neuroscience center. During emergency stroke events, PMC’s neurological team works closely with emergency department (ED) staff to provide prompt care. Rapid diagnosis and treatment are essential in preventing long-term disability. The center’s coordinated stroke response team allows patients to receive prompt evaluation and treatment, improving outcomes for individuals across the region. At PMC, neurologists and emergency department (ED) providers utilize advanced technology to help identify certain types of strokes quickly and effectively, leading to more accurate diagnosis and better patient outcomes.
Patients in Eastern Kentucky often face challenges accessing specialized neurological care close to home. By offering advanced neuroscience services in Pikeville, the experienced team at PMC helps patients throughout the Appalachian region receive high-quality care without needing to travel far from their communities.
To learn more about the Eastern Kentucky Neuroscience Center, call 606-430-2208 or visit www.pmcky.org/stroke-center.
Managing Parkinson’s with a Team Approach
Managing Parkinson’s disease (PD) often requires care from multiple healthcare professionals working together to support patients through every stage of the condition. At Pikeville Medical Center (PMC), patients benefit from a team-based approach that focuses on treating symptoms, maintaining independence and improving quality of life.
Since PD affects movement, coordination and other bodily systems, treatment often extends beyond medication alone. Physicians collaborate with rehabilitation specialists, therapists and support staff to provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs.
Neurologists oversee the medical management of PD and closely monitor how symptoms change over time. They may adjust medications to help control tremors, stiffness and slowed movement while minimizing side effects. Regular follow-up visits allow providers to evaluate how well treatments are working and make adjustments when necessary.
Physical therapy plays an important role in helping patients maintain mobility and strength. Therapists work with individuals to improve balance, flexibility and coordination while reducing the risk of falls. Exercise regimens designed for Parkinson’s patients can also help improve endurance and overall physical health.
Occupational therapy focuses on helping patients maintain independence in everyday activities such as dressing, cooking and personal care. Therapists may recommend strategies or adaptive tools that make daily tasks easier and safer.
Speech therapy may also be beneficial for patients who experience changes in their voice or difficulty swallowing. Speech-language pathologists can provide exercises and techniques that strengthen communication skills and help prevent complications related to swallowing difficulties.
Education and support are also key components of Parkinson’s care. Patients and their families often benefit from learning more about the condition, understanding how symptoms may change over time and developing strategies to adapt to those changes. Support from healthcare providers can also greatly help individuals remain active and engaged in their daily lives.
Through coordinated care and ongoing support, the interdisciplinary team at PMC works to help patients living with Parkinson’s disease receive the resources and treatment they need to manage their condition and maintain the highest quality of life possible.
To learn more about the Eastern Kentucky Neuroscience Center, call 606-430-2208 or visit www.pmcky.org/stroke-center.