What is Levodopa Induced Dyskinesia?
The involuntary movements that occur due to long run intake of levodopa as a treatment procedure of Parkinson’s disease is essentially called levodopa induced dyskinesia. Dyskinesia basically implies any form of involuntary movement like chorea, ballism, tic and so on. The common forms of dyskinesia induced by levodopa include chorea and dystonia which generally coexist.
How is Levodopa Induced Dyskinesia Managed In Parkinson’s Disease?
The doctor should be informed in case of such side-effects produced by levodopa. Dyskinesia may be managed in ways like-
Dosage Modifications: The doctor may help with the management of the dyskinesia by changing the dosage of the levodopa in order to control the symptoms.
Levodopa ER- Sometimes, the doctor may prescribe an extended release formulation of the levodopa drug. Extended release or continuous infusion aims to keep the level of the medication so that the dopamine level in the patient’s system is kept constant in order to limit the symptoms of dyskinesia.
Other Medicines: There are medications available like amantadine which targets dyskinesia. The doctor may pair such forms of medicines along with the levodopa therapy to keep a check on the symptoms of dyskinesia.
Surgery: Surgical methods like deep brain stimulation may be used. Although such a procedure cannot be used for every patient, but for patients who are suffering from Parkinson’s disease for quite some time, it may be a boon. Deep brain stimulation is also helpful in treating tremors experienced in Parkinson’s disease.
Is There A Possibility To Reverse Parkinson’s Disease?
There is possibly no way of reversing Parkinson’s disease till date. This is because proper etiological factors contributing to Parkinson’s disease have not been found yet. A healthy lifestyle along with exercise and medication can help each the already existing symptoms, but one can never get rid of Parkinson’s disease completely, once diagnosed.
How Severe Can Parkinson’s Disease Get For A Patient?
How Parkinson’s disease affect a patient depends on various factors and it is quite impossible to predict the progression rate of the disease. At the highest level, Parkinson’s disease may greatly affect the patient adversely affecting the motor abilities of him. Secondary symptoms of delusions and hallucinations may also follow. At times, many patients with Parkinson’s disease are also diagnosed with dementia. However, with the advancement in the medical field, various treatment options along with occupational therapy may help the patient ease out the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease thereby improving the quality of his life.
Is There Any Method To Prevent Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease cannot really be prevented because the environmental risk factors of the disease are not yet discovered. It may be triggered due to few genetic factors or even traumatic events which are beyond our control to prevent.
How to Manage A Healthy Life When Diagnosed With Parkinson’s Disease?
It is a known fact that Parkinson’s disease is progressive in nature. The fact that the patient’s lose their independence gradually due to motor difficulties is quite difficult to accept. However, with proper care from caregivers and support groups, the anxiety and stress related to can disease can be conquered. Support groups help the patient understand that many people like him fight with the disease and manage to survive a happy life. Caregivers also play an important role in motivating the patient to lead a healthy lifestyle with proper exercise plan and having a balanced diet.
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