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A specialised medical facility dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of Parkinson's disease in individuals under the age of 50 is termed a young-onset Parkinson's Disease clinic. This clinic prioritises the unique challenges faced by younger patients, including the impact of the disease on their professional lives, relationships, and long-term planning. Symptoms of young-onset Parkinson's disease (YOPD) typically appear between the ages of 21 and 40. Genetic and clinical differences help to distinguish YOPD from late-onset Parkinson's disease. Dystonia (unintentional sustained muscle contractions) is more frequent in early-stage YOPD than in late-onset PD.
The Young-onset Parkinson's Disease Clinic at Manipal Hospitals, Dhakuria, offers a comprehensive approach that includes neurological assessments, tailored medication regimens, physical and occupational therapy, and support for mental health and cognitive well-being. Additionally, the clinic often provides access to clinical trials and cutting-edge research, aiming to improve the quality of life and slow the progression of the disease in younger patients. Our multidisciplinary team typically includes neurologists, physiotherapists, speech therapists, and social workers, all working together to provide personalised care and support.
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People with YOPD are more likely to have a family history of Parkinson's disease and live longer lives. People living with young-onset Parkinson's disease may experience:
Slower advancement of Parkinson's symptoms over time, remaining functional and cognitively intact for a longer timeframe.
Less common cognitive issues, such as dementia, and dopaminergic medicines may cause more frequent dyskinesias (involuntary bodily movements)
Earlier and more frequent dystonias, such as foot arching.
People with Parkinson's disease cannot make enough dopamine. The cells in a specific section of the brain die, resulting in a decrease in the quantity of this neurotransmitter called dopamine (a brain messenger molecule). Dopamine regulates mood and mobility; therefore, these regions are severely affected. According to current research, the start of Parkinson's symptoms is caused by a mix of:
Head trauma
Family history
Pharmacological and/or environmental contaminants such as pesticides
Male gender and advanced age are also risk factors
Every person with Parkinson's disease suffers a loss of dopamine in the brain, as well as having a unique set of symptoms and progression.
Patients with young-onset Parkinson's disease appear to have a slower disease progression over time. They typically have a milder course and remain functioning and cognitively intact for much longer.
There is no specific lab or imaging test available to diagnose Parkinson's disease. A few tests are available, such as:
Magnetic resonance imaging of brain tissue (MRI brain)
Dopamine transporter scanning (DaT scan)
Blood tests can be used to support the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease or to rule out other medical diseases that can mimic Parkinson's.
Parkinson's disease is incurable; however, medications can significantly reduce symptoms. In certain, more advanced situations, surgery may be recommended. Your healthcare provider may also urge lifestyle adjustments, including regular aerobic exercise.
Final stage Parkinson's disease causes significant motor symptoms, such as:
Parkinson's disease does not kill people but can lead to fatal complications.
The majority of people who get Parkinson's disease are over the age of 60, as the disease is frequently ignored by younger people, resulting in many going undetected or misdiagnosed for long periods of time. However, once diagnosed, the disease normally progresses significantly slower in younger people than in older people because younger people have fewer general health problems and are more capable of undergoing physical therapy treatment.
PD is commonly thought of as a disease that affects the elderly, and while this is generally true, it can make diagnosing PD in a young person challenging. A younger person's diagnosis may take longer because doctors may neglect or misinterpret the symptoms. Furthermore, accepting the diagnosis might be especially difficult for a young person, as they may believe that Parkinson's disease only affects the elderly.
Most patients with Parkinson's disease take carbidopa or levodopa (Sinemet) to treat their motor symptoms; however, people with young-onset PD are more likely to experience adverse effects from this drug, such as dyskinesia. For those with young-onset Parkinson's disease, physicians frequently prescribe monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) inhibitors and dopamine agonists.
Deep Brain Stimulation may also be used to treat Parkinson's movement symptoms. This is a surgical procedure in which electrodes are implanted in specific parts of the brain and an impulse generator (similar to a pacemaker) is placed beneath the collarbone or abdomen. This stimulator restores neuronal firing equilibrium in a brain region known as the basal ganglia. This brain region is in charge of coordinated motions. Patients with young-onset Parkinson's disease benefit from physical treatment, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and exercise to relieve motor symptoms.
Travelling may necessitate additional planning and accommodations, but many Parkinson's patients still enjoy visiting new places and experiencing other cultures. Just make sure you pack your medications and any other necessities.
Parkinson's can hurt your mental health, but there are strategies to deal with it. If you're having trouble, don't hesitate to contact your healthcare team. Therapy, support groups, and medications can all help you maintain your mental health.
Eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains will help you maintain your overall health and manage your Parkinson's symptoms. Some people find that particular foods or supplements, such as antioxidants or omega-3 fatty acids, can be useful, but it's always a good idea to consult your doctor or a dietician before making any significant changes.
Parkinson's disease can sometimes cause cognitive abnormalities, such as memory issues and dementia, particularly in the later stages. However, not everyone with Parkinson's develops these symptoms, and there are therapies and methods available to help control them if they do.
It is possible. Dealing with a chronic ailment, such as Parkinson's, can hurt your mental health. If you're feeling sad or anxious, don't be afraid to ask for support. Depression and anxiety can be treated effectively through therapy, support groups, and medication.
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