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Care Issues
Treatment
What It Could Be
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PARKINSON'S INFORMATION |
- Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic, degenerative neurological disorder that affects both voluntary and involuntary movement. Tremor, rigidity, freezing in place, pain, muscle cramps, swallowing difficulty, balance problems, and dementia are only a few Parkinson's symptoms which can cause severe debilitation. Currently there is no cure, however, various treatment options can offer Parkinson patients temporary relief from symptoms.
- Parkinson's disease is second only to Alzheimer's disease as a degenerative neurological disorder. In the United States, Parkinson's disease affects more people than the combined total of those suffering from multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, and Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS).
- Over 1.5 million people in the United States suffer from Parkinson's disease. A new case of Parkinson's is diagnosed every nine minutes. The average age of diagnosis is 58, however, Parkinson's disease also strikes people in their 30's and 40's. Over 50,000 people in Michigan have Parkinson's. Thirty percent are under the age of 50.
- Parkinson's disease has been called a family disorder because caregivers are crucial for the well-being of the Parkinson's patient. Respite care and the high cost of medications are critical concerns.
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