Recognize the different stages of Parkinson’s disease

Like many chronic diseases, Parkinson’s is a progressive illness with different stages. The aim of this article is to help you better prepare for coping with this disease, and also to recognize when you’ll need outside help, such as a professional caregiver.

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder of the nervous system, usually appearing between the ages of 50 and 70. It is caused by the degeneration and loss of dopaminergic neurons, responsible for the production of dopamine, leading to motor complications. Dopamine is a brain neurotransmitter associated with desire and pleasure.

However, we now know that dopaminergic neurons are involved in movement control. When these neurons are destroyed, the tremors characteristic of Parkinson’s disease appear. Conversely, the production of excess dopamine in certain regions of the brain is responsible for the terrible symptoms associated with schizophrenia.

The four stages of Parkinson’s disease

The disease generally progresses through four stages. That said, symptoms and disease progression will vary from one individual to another.

The first symptoms of Parkinson’s disease

The onset of the first symptoms may come as a shock to the sufferer, but in reality, the disease really began between 5 and 10 years earlier, and a variable proportion of dopaminergic neurons have disappeared.

The honeymoon stage

During this period, the manifestation of Parkinson’s symptoms is not very significant, and the patient’s life can continue in a fairly normal way. This period lasts between 3 and 8 years, depending on the individual.

However, this first true stage of Parkinson’s disease is very difficult for patients, as the permanence of symptoms is a source of anxiety, and sometimes the medical profession is unable to make a definitive diagnosis at first. This period of uncertainty adds to the anxiety. Learning that you have Parkinson’s forces you to question yourself, and accepting treatment can take more or less time, depending on the individual.

During this period, when the patient is managed, the efficacy of dopaminergic treatment is very positive.

The “fluctuations” stage

During this period, Parkinson’s symptoms worsen and patients experience episodes of motor problems. These episodes occur in 50% of cases, around 4 to 6 years after the onset of the first symptoms.

Even if the patient feels better during this period due to the dopaminergic treatment, the symptoms remain and the disease continues to progress. The patient will have to take medication several times a day, and reorganize his or her life to accommodate the disease.

The “advanced” stage of Parkinson’s disease

At this stage, dopaminergic treatment loses its effectiveness.

Loss of balance and falls become frequent, as do swallowing and vegetative disorders. Other disorders such as cramps, blood pressure problems and urinary dysfunction may also be observed. At this stage, many patients will remain bedridden.

Intellectual difficulties and psychological manifestations appear: depression, memory loss, confusion, even dementia.

What do caregivers need to know?

If you’re a caregiver, Parkinson’s can affect you too. Caregivers tend to think they’ll stay healthy and able to provide the care they need. Yet they often become exhausted and ill. Here are a few tips:

• Take care of yourself and continue to pursue your own interests;
• Take time to relax;
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, exercise and eat well;
• Have an “emergency plan” in case you get sick;
• Join support groups listed by the Parkinson Society of Canada;
• Above all, don’t hesitate to call on a professional caregiver or a homecare service.

The evolution of Parkinson’s disease will vary from one individual to another, but its final outcome is inescapable. At present, there is no treatment available to halt its progression.

Ready to take action on Parkinson’s disease solutions? Call us today to find the best seniors’ residence or ideal home care. Your comfort and well-being are important to us.

Also discover our related articles on the topic of Parkinson’s, to deepen your understanding and enrich your perspective:

• Recognize the first 10 signs of Parkinson’s disease
• Parkinson’s disease solutions
• Tips for sleeping well despite Parkinson’s disease

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