A-Z Parkinson's: D

D-DBS-Depression-Dexterity-Dystonia-Dehydration-Dementia-Drooling-Dopamine-Degenerative-Drugs-DAT Scan-Drunk

Hello, lovelies. Please tell me your Parkinson’s ‘D’ in the comments below x

• D (Vitamin)

Essential for prevention of cognitive impairment and dopamine synthesis.

Generally hailed as the wonder vitamin. Precisely the excuse you need to book a holiday in the sun. But do sit in the shade due to the higher risk of melanoma.

• DaT Scan

Dopamine Transporter Scan commonly refers to a diagnostic method to investigate if there is a loss of dopaminergic neurons.

A process which, as yet, has failed to produce my superhero status with an injection of a radioactive substance. After which requires you to lie very still as they photograph the lack of dopamine in your brain. Sadly the inability to maintain a still state is usually enough of a diagnostic indicator.

• DBS

Deep Brain Stimulation is a sort of pacemaker for the brain. No superhero powers have been recorded using this method of motor control, yet.

• Dehydration

A common issue in Parkinson’s due to swallowing challenges, medication, motor ability and apathy.

A well-stocked cellar is recommended.*

(*Not real medical advice)

• Degenerative

The definition of old age, only quicker and more uncomfortable.

• Dementia

Parkinson's disease dementia (PDD) can occur as Parkinson's advances, after several years of motor symptoms.

That’s assuming living with the disease doesn’t push you over the edge with its unpredictability and frustrations long before.

• Depression

Often triggered by how long it takes to get an appointment for your:

neurologist, Parkinson’’s nurse, speech therapist, physiotherapist, sleep specialist, occupational therapist, movement specialist, mental health support, and more

• Dexterity

• Dopamine

Valhalla, Shangri La, Heaven, Elysium, Nirvana - Parkinson’s patients are by necessity atheists.

• Drooling (see autonomic)

Swallowing less often can lead to saliva build-up, which, in turn, can lead to drooling.

Usually down a pristine white shirt.

• Drugs (see medication)

MOA-B Inhibitors, Anticholinergics, Agonistis, Infused Levodopa, Inhaled Levodopa, Apomorphine, COMT Inhibitors, Amantadine, and more.

Varying degrees of success dependant on being able to open the packaging, timing and side effect endurance.

• Drunk

Many PwP are mistaken for being drunk, of course, many are.

• Dystonia

Painful, prolonged muscle contractions cause abnormal movements and postures, such as a foot turning inward or the head tilting sideways.

Brilliant should you want to star in low-budget horror films.

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