Parkinson’s Disease

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Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and causes symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. New Jersey Brain and Spine (NJBS) will work to develop comprehensive treatment plans for people with Parkinson’s Disease. Our team of experts will collaborate closely with occupational and speech therapists, dieticians, and mental health professionals to provide a patient specific diagnosis and treatment plan. From medications and rehabilitative therapies to minimally invasive procedures and advanced surgical approaches,  Dr. Elana Clar, MD, Dr. Hooman Azmi, MD, and the other members of our team are dedicated to providing the highest level of personalized care and support.

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s Disease is a disorder of the nervous system that occurs when the brain’s ability to make certain chemicals called neurotransmitters, is reduced.  The reduced availability of these important chemicals brings about difficulties with movement such as slowness, stiffness or tremors among other symptoms. Parkinson’s Disease is a degenerative condition, meaning that symptoms can continue to worsen over time.  

The condition is characterized by shaking or tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination, but people with Parkinson’s Disease can also experience what are called non-motor symptoms such as constipation, problems sleeping, and bladder control issues, among others. Symptoms and the progression of the condition can vary widely from person to person.

“Parkinson’s is very different in each patient,” Hooman Azmi, MD, told Forbes. “Not every patient will have similar symptoms, and the rate of progression is quite different in each person. This often is a very slow process and takes years. Initially, patients may not feel any significant symptoms , but over time, certain symptoms [called the prodrome] can occur,” Dr. Azmi said. 

 It is estimated that Parkinson’s Disease affects nearly 1 million people in the United States and more than 6 million people globally. In the United States, it is the second most common progressive neurodegenerative disease in older adults and occurrence is predicted to increase as the population ages.

What are the risk factors for Parkinson’s Disease?

While an exact cause of Parkinson’s Disease is unknown, researchers believe that a combination of factors contribute to the development of the condition, including: 

• Age: The average age of onset is 60 years old.
• Sex: Men are 1.5 times more likely to develop Parkinson’s Disease.
• Genetics: Approximately 15% of people with Parkinson’s have a parent or sibling who has had Parkinson’s Disease, though it is not fully understood how genetics influences risk.
• Environmental Factors: Pesticides, herbicides, and other toxins have been implicated in the development of Parkinson’s Disease, but more research must be conducted to more clearly understand the role of these environmental exposures.

What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s Disease symptoms vary widely, but the most recognized include shaking or tremors, stiff muscles, and slower movements. It is also associated with issues like constipation, trouble sleeping, pain, depression and mood swings, and memory loss — albeit not in all patients and in later stages–all of which can negatively impact quality of life.

Recognizing and treating these symptoms early is important for helping patients live well.

How is Parkinson’s Disease treated?

There is no cure for Parkinson’s Disease, however researchers are actively working to better understand what causes the disease and to identify targets for more effective treatments. There are currently a variety of treatments alone and in combination that can effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life. 

Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease focuses on managing symptoms and. These include medications, lifestyle changes, minimally invasive and surgical approaches.

Minimally Invasive and Surgical Approaches

When medication and lifestyle changes no longer control symptoms, minimally invasive  and surgical treatments may be considered. At NJBS our specialists participate in research and clinical trials and continue to pioneer advances in technology to provide patients with cutting-edge therapies.

• Non-surgical treatment options may include chemodenervation techniques (sometimes known as Botox injections) to decrease abnormal movements.
• Deep brain stimulation is a surgical approach in which small electrodes are implanted in certain areas of the brain to regulate brain signals that cause abnormal movements like tremors. 
• High-intensity focused ultrasound is a minimally invasive alternative to deep brain stimulation during which the neurosurgeon uses brain scans to direct ultrasound waves to  a specific area of the brain causing a small ablation.. Many patients experience immediate and significant reduction in hand tremors following this procedure.

Every treatment plan is tailored to address the specific symptoms and disease progression of each individual patient.

How long can someone live with Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s Disease itself is not fatal, though complications from the disease can shorten a person’s life. Factors that influence how well a person lives with Parkinson’s Disease, include age at onset, overall health, and the severity of symptoms.  Remaining physically and mentally active, and observing good diet and health habits helps anyone and in particular people with Parkinson’s live longer and healthier. 

When to seek help

NJBS is at the forefront of treatment and management for people with Parkinson’s Disease. We offer a full scope of lifelong treatment including minimally invasive and surgical treatments. In addition to our clinical care, we can connect you with support groups, exercise classes, and other programs led by experts in the comprehensive management of the disease.

Early diagnosis and treatment are keys to living well and longer. If you think you are experiencing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, reach out to us. We can work with you to diagnose your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan.