PARKINSON’S DISEASE SHORT NOTES
- The degenerative disease occurs due to the degeneration of dopamine-producing cells in the substantia nigra, which results in dopamine deficiency.
- Dysfunction of the extrapyramidal tract of midbrain
CAUSES
- Family history
- Most often develops in the age of 60
- Some toxic environmental chemicals such as pesticides and carbon mono oxide.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Bradykinesia (Abnormal slowness of movement and sluggishness of physical and mental responses.)
- Akinesia (loss of control of voluntary muscle movement)
- Tremor (pill rolling), rigidity, drooling
- Loss of co-ordination and balance
- Suffling steps and propulsive gait
- Monotonous speech
TREATMENT
- Assess neurological status
- Assess the ability to swallow and chew
- Provide high calorie, high protein, high fiber soft diet with small, frequent feedings
- Monitor for constipation
- Assist with ambulation
- Administer a combination of carbidopa and levodopa
- Administer amantadine and bromocriptine
- Instruct the client to wear low heeled shoes
- Promote physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Instruct the client to avoid foods high in vitamin B6 because they block the effects of antiparkinsonian medications
- Instruct the client to avoid monoamine oxidase inhibitors because they will precipitate hypertensive crisis
