Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurological disorder that leads to motor symptoms such as shaking and difficulty with movement and coordination. Approximately 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with PD each year and an estimated 1 million live with the condition, according to the National Institutes of Health. This article will provide information on Parkinson’s early signs and symptoms and will help answer the question “what is Parkinson’s?”
Dr. Robert Izor of Neurology Solutions Movement Disorders Center joined Austin’s KXAN News Studio 512 last week to talk about advancements in Medtronic deep brain stimulation (DBS) therapy, a surgical treatment for patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and disorders such as dystonia and essential tremor. In 2016, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved Medtronic DBS therapy for use in people with early Parkinson’s disease—at least four-years duration—with recent onset of motor complications not adequately controlled with medication.
DBS-device manufacturer Medtronic is at the forefront of new, more precise programming technology allowing the DBS current field to stimulate deeper areas of the brain and alleviate stimulation-induced symptoms. Medtronic named Neurology Solutions the fourth-largest private DBS implant center in the country and the largest such center managing DBS patients in Texas.
Neurology Solutions patient Alex Andron’s path has traversed a successful career on Wall Street to new ventures as an artist, author and adventurer who plans to climb to the peak of Hawaii’s Mauna Kea in August as an advocate for Parkinson’s disease (PD). Andron, who was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s disease (YOPD) at 35 years old, is currently completing an autobiographical book about his experience with YOPD, No Limits, scheduled for release this spring.
He tracks his journey on his blog, ElevateParkinsons.com, and shares his inspiring story of accepting and overcoming the challenges of living with YOPD.
This past year brought several exciting developments in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. From fast-tracking of an antibody being trialed as an immunotherapy drug in cancer treatment to FDA approval of the first medication to treat PD psychosis, researchers are advancing new medications for motor and secondary symptoms of the disease and gaining greater understanding of and potential therapies to slow disease process.
So you’ve been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. What do you do next? First, understand that Parkinson’s disease affects each person differently and no two cases are exactly the same. There are several concrete steps you can take to gain control of your health and maintain a high quality of life with PD. Read on for strategies for living well with Parkinson’s.
Neurology Solutions Medical Director Dr. Robert Izor has participated in more than 200 Medtronic deep brain stimulation procedures since 2004 with St. David’s Medical Center Neurosurgeon Anant Patel. Using high resolution advanced imaging technology, Dr. Izor and Dr. Patel have been able to precisely target specific areas of the brain signaling motor symptoms, allowing for excellent DBS response and no side effects. This article will lay out the most common risks and results of deep brain stimulation surgery as well as explain why “awake DBS” is the gold standard for optimal precision.
Dr. Robert Izor and the Neurology Solutions care team will lead a panel discussion on key topics of interest to the Parkinson’s community, including treatment options and the latest Parkinson’s research breakthroughs, during an upcoming meeting of the Capital Area Parkinson’s Society. The Neurology Solutions providers panel will discuss Deep Brain Stimulation surgery (DBS) as well as metabolic enhancements for Parkinson’s disease as a way to slow the progression of neurodegenerative disease process.
Yoga is credited with providing benefits such as increased flexibility and stability, reduced stress and better sleep. Recent research also indicates yoga and meditation practice cause structural changes to areas of the brain impacted by PD and contribute to improved memory, cognition and mood.
How can Yoga help Parkinson’s patients and individuals with neurodegenerative diseases?
The changes in the brain that cause motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease spread gradually but in time they often begin to affect mental functions, including memory and the ability to pay attention, make sound judgments and plan the steps needed to complete a task, known as “executive function.” Medication treatment is available for secondary symptoms of Parkinson’s disease affecting mental function, such as dementia, psychosis and impaired executive function.
Choices about medications made early in the course of disease can have a lasting impact on the course of the illness. Learn about medications for managing Parkinson’s disease.