It may take more than 20 years for the progression of symptoms in Parkinson’s disease (PD), although the course of this chronic degenerative neurological disease may take place more quickly in some people. There is no way to predict what course the disease will take for an individual person. With right treatment, most people with parkinson’s disease can live active lives for years after diagnosis. The drugs that address the symptoms may at some point begin to lose effectiveness and it will be necessary to consider alternatives.  One of the most important things to consider is your medical team.  Ensure that you have local primary care physician in whom you have complete confidence and who will listen to you.  Try to find a neurologist who is a specialist in movement disorders if you have not already done so.  It is also essential to locate a pharmacy where you may build a good relationship and where prices are reasonable.  40% of Parkinson’s sufferers develop depression, so it may be a good idea to research counselors and/or psychiatrists with experience of parkinson’s disease.

Exercise is a very important part of combating this disease and may take any form those appeals to you, especially any sport or exercise which you enjoyed before your diagnosis.  Also consider locating a knowledgeable physical therapist to help guide exercise. There are several available treatments to be considered if drug therapy loses its effectiveness including Deep Brain Stimulation, which uses a surgically implanted medical “pacemaker” which electrically stimulates parts of the brain that control movement and muscle function. There is considerable ongoing research into all aspects of Parkinson’s disease including gene therapy which is still in development.

Neuroprotective treatments are currently under consideration as well, These substances and drugs are for the purpose of preventing cell death and therefore slowing the progression of the disease.  There are several alternative treatments undergoing consideration including Coenzyme Q10, ferrous iron supplements, and l-tyrosine.  Studies related to Qigong are also continuing.

In Europe work is underway using bone marrow stem cells harvested from the patient themselves , processed in the laboratory and implanted into the cerebro spinal canal or into the brain itself. Initial results seen in these first patients has seen notable improvement in the condition of eight of the eleven patients surveyed with marked improvement in some areas and overall improvement in two others with one reporting no marked change. There are numerous ongoing studies and field trials of new research. Inclusion in one or more may be a positive step in your battle against parkinson’s disease.