Parkinson’s Disease can be identified 20-30 years before a clinical diagnosis, enhancing quality of life. Early detection and treatment can reduce symptoms and disease progression…
Parkinson’s Disease is debilitating. But, diagnosis may take years, leaving a person feeling helpless and ill. Recent research shows Parkinson’s can be diagnosed 20-30 years before clinical diagnosis. Early detection and treatment can improve Parkinson’s sufferers’ quality of life, potentially saving their lives.
Kevin Barnham, professor at The Florey and principal researcher of the Neurology study, said, “Parkinson’s disease is challenging to identify until symptoms appear, when up to 85% of motor coordination neurons have been damaged. At that point, many treatments may fail.”
The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health in Melbourne found that PET scans and a biomarker called F-AV-133 can diagnose Parkinson’s disease and follow neurodegeneration.
Parkinson’s Disease may start with minor changes in behavior and movements that are misdiagnosed. These alterations may start 20 years before Parkinson’s Disease is diagnosed. Initial warning signals may include:
- Slow actions like trying to button a shirt or write with a pen
The following symptoms may occur: impaired motor skills, tremors, speech abnormalities, facial expression changes, loss of smell, depression, fatigue, and constipation.
If you or someone you know has any of these symptoms, get medical help immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment improve Parkinson’s Disease quality of life. Parkinson’s Disease has no cure, however therapies can manage symptoms and delay progression. Medication, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and lifestyle adjustments like sleep and diet may be used in early therapies.
Staying up to date on Parkinson’s Disease research and talking to your doctor are crucial. Early detection and therapy may decrease disease development and enhance quality of life. Staying in touch with friends and family, talking to Parkinson’s patients, joining a support group or online forum, and staying cheerful are also crucial.
Conclusion
Early detection of Parkinson’s Disease 20-30 years before diagnosis may improve quality of life. F-AV-133 biomarkers with PET scans help diagnose and follow neurodegeneration, according to Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health researchers.Slow movements, diminished motor abilities, tremors, speech changes, facial expressions, loss of smell, sadness, fatigue, and constipation are warning signs. Although there is no cure, medications, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and lifestyle changes control symptoms and slow disease progression. Being informed, speaking with doctors, and staying cheerful can also assist.
