April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month. Why Does it Matter?

Parkinson’s disease is a critical illness that affects the nerve cells in a special part of the brain called substantia nigra, causing them to die. Substantia nigra has an important role in controlling the movements of limbs and other parts of the body. Therefore, people with Parkinson’s feel trouble moving and experience other abnormal movements. While there are treatments including drugs and surgeries to manage the effects of Parkinson’s disease, there is no way to reduce or slow down the progression of the disease.

The early symptoms of this disease may include trouble chewing, swallowing, constipation, stress, depression, and sleeping problems. However, as the disease progresses, the symptoms can get severe. Therefore, it is very important to look out for any symptoms that include issues in basic movements and get a professional diagnosis for the disease. Since the symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other diseases, the doctors may prescribe imaging tests to rule out the possibility of other medical conditions.

Once you obtain formal diagnosis results showing the development of Parkinson’s, you must seek immediate medical advice. Depending upon the severity of your symptoms, the doctors may suggest drugs that boost dopamine levels in the body. In case the medicines don’t work, the doctors may recommend deep brain stimulation surgery. This involves inserting electrodes into the brain which stimulate electrical pulses. These pulses control the signs of Parkinson’s, such as tremors.

Why Does Parkinson’s Awareness Month Matter?

Parkinson’s disease is one of the most critical illnesses in the world. However, there is very little knowledge among the masses about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, possible treatments, and precautions related to the disease. This is in contrast with other major illnesses like breast cancer, blood cancer, diabetes, etc. which can not be cured if remain undetected for a long time. Therefore, every year in April, Parkinson's Awareness Month 2022 is observed to dedicate one month of the year to increasing awareness about this chronic condition.

Parkinson’s Awareness Month matters a lot because it is a progressive illness and keeps intensifying over time. However, there is very little research that has been done about the disease regarding the factors causing it, and preventive measures that can be taken to prevent the development of the disease. There is very little attention paid by people to those suffering from the disease. Also, since there is very little knowledge about the symptoms specific to the disease, medical professionals often do not consider the possibility of Parkinson’s disease in the patient. Many times, this results in delayed medical treatment or surgery that should be performed on the patient.

Moreover, many people aren’t aware of the existence of specialised health insurance plans like Critical Health Insurance by Niva Bupa that provides coverage against such severe diseases. Hence, there is a need to celebrate Parkinson’s Awareness Month to create awareness about the disease and discuss the progress in the future of PD.

What Can you Do to Spread Awareness?

Being aware of the disease and its symptoms is the first step toward fighting it. Secondly, spreading awareness among people is an important step. There is only one way of preventing the development of Parkinson’s disease, which is to detect it at an early age and obtain suitable treatment. So, here are a few ways in which you can create awareness around you about Parkinson’s disease.

• Start a dialogue with PD being the centre of discussion. Ask your friends, family members, and relatives about their scope of knowledge about the disease.
• Redirect them to the official websites of the organisations that are doing exceptional work in this field. 
   
• Book your appointment with the neurologist to see if you are prone to developing the disease. This may sound horrific at a point. But being practical is the key to fighting it.
   
• Encourage the people you know to book their appointments and see a doctor if they observe any problems in movement.
   
• Donate to the non-profits working to spread awareness, helping people with PD, or supplying medical aid to the people suffering from PD.
   
• If you know someone who is suffering from Parkinson’s, check on them to see if they are doing okay or need any help.
   
• If you know someone who should seek professional help but are hesitant to do so, help them in obtaining help by referring them to the organisations working in the domain. Introduce them to support groups.
• Participate in awareness campaigns and optimism walks to be a part of the movement and raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease.

All of us need to stay informed and remember that we are in this together. We can beat the disease if we stick together like a fist and stay resilient in our fight against Parkinson’s disease.

FAQs

1. Is April the month of Parkinson's awareness?

Yes, April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, dedicated to increasing understanding and support for those living with Parkinson’s disease. It includes educational events, fundraising, and community outreach worldwide.

2. Why is Parkinson's important?

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder affecting movement and quality of life. Raising awareness is crucial for early diagnosis, better care, and advancing research for treatments and a possible cure.

3. Why is World Parkinson's Day celebrated?

World Parkinson’s Day is observed on April 11 to mark the birth anniversary of Dr. James Parkinson, who first described the disease in 1817. The day aims to spread awareness and reduce stigma around the condition.

4. What is the symbol for Parkinson's Awareness Month?

The symbol is the red tulip, introduced by the Parkinson’s community as a sign of hope and solidarity. Some also use silver or gray ribbons to represent awareness.

5. What is the main reason for Parkinson's?

Parkinson’s is primarily caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. The exact cause is unknown but may involve genetic and environmental factors, ageing, or exposure to toxins.