Treatment for Parkinson's Disease followed in the conventional system of medicine includes:
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MEDICATIONS: The medical treatment for Parkinson's disease generally includes the use of following drugs:
- Levodopa which gets converted into dopamine. Side effects include shortened response with each dose, painful cramps and involuntary movements.
- Carbidopa is used with Levodopa, because it prevents breakdown of levodopa before it reaches the brain. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, depression, worsening of tremors and convulsions.
- Dopamine agonists which mimic the action of dopamine. Side effects commonly seen are dizziness, nausea, weight loss, hallucinations and weakness.
- MAO-B Inhibitors prevent breakdown of dopamine. Side effects include swelling caused by fluid accumulation in body tissues, drowsiness, constipation, dizziness, hallucinations, and nausea.
Conventional treatment for Parkinson's disease involves dealing with many side effects, some of them quite extreme. That is why, in many cases, patients have to cope to a greater extent with effects of the drugs rather than symptoms of the disease.
- SURGERY: Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) is a surgical technique used in treatment for Parkinson's disease in advanced cases. Here, electrodes are implanted to stimulate the areas of brain which produce movements.
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ADJUNCT THERAPIES: Apart from the medical treatment for Parkinson's disease, some other therapies might also be needed:
- Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist can teach you exercises to improve movements and strengthen your muscles.
- Occupational Therapy: An occupational therapist can help you perform routine activities like self-care, household chores and work.
- Speech Therapy: A speech therapist helps you cope up with your speech difficulties.
