In a recent article by Luigi Cucchi in “Il Giornale,” Parkinson’s disease was discussed. There are many people in Italy currently affected by this illness, with about 300,000 cases reported.
Numerous famous figures have also been afflicted by this condition: it appears that Leonardo da Vinci towards the end of his life struggled with tremors and slowing down of his fingers’ movements, the US presidents Roosevelt and Truman, Dalì, Pope John Paul II, Mao Zedong, Charlie Chaplin, and Mohammed Ali, who recently passed away.
Causes of Parkinson’s Disease Development
The causes of the disease’s development are still unknown, but it’s believed that only a few cases are solely due to genetic mutations; in most cases, there’s a correlation between genetic vulnerability and environmental factors.
These two factors (genetic and environmental) cause a disruption in dopamine metabolism leading to the onset of the disease.
Epidemiological data suggests that deaths from Parkinson’s are not usually directly linked to the disease itself, constituting between 1.5% and 2.7% of patients. Most complications are caused by bone injuries due to falls and lung diseases.
“Parkinson’s disease represents the primary degenerative form with juvenile variant, while parkinsonism encompasses clinical pictures that, from a symptomatic point of view, resemble Parkinson’s disease due to the presence of tremors, rigidity, reduced mobility, gait disturbances, difficulty in maintaining balance, but differ in their causes,” says Professor Mauro Porta, a neurologist and expert in extrapyramidal diseases.
Treatments for Better Management
“Essential in the therapeutic algorithm is the use of L-dopa. Deep brain stimulation (DBS), the most effective remedy for tremors, especially when refractory, while peripheral Mechanical Automatic Stimulation (AMPS) plays a role in motor blocks and balance, allowing a reduction in motor disability and the risk of falls. It is a non-invasive treatment based on mechanical stimulation of the plantar surface,” concludes Professor Porta.
In addition to the therapies mentioned by Professor Mauro Porta, there are other strategies to improve mobility and alleviate symptoms, such as engaging in physical activity and following a diet tailored to the medications taken.
Courses in dance or singing are also offered as preparatory measures for Parkinson’s disease.
