Treating and Managing Parkinson’s Tremors and Dyskinesia
The most common symptom in Parkinson’s disease is tremor. This could affect other movements as well. The most basic of tremors is a resting tremor, which nearly 80% of people suffer from. It is described as a rhythmic motion that very often begins in one hand. It is most apparent when the hand is at ease, relaxed, or resting. Over time, the tremor can travel to the other hand or even to the leg on the same side of the body.
In some cases, chin tremors can be seen frequently but head tremors are rare. In addition to tremors, we also see dyskinesia or chorea. The term originates from the Greek word choreia, which means dance. It presents itself in a dance-like, flowing movement, which is not rhythmic. Generally, dyskinesia occurs after Parkinson’s has affected them for several years.
This is a complication of the disease and the drugs administered to treat Parkinson’s disease tremors and dyskinesia:
1. Treating Parkinson’s tremors
Parkinson’s tremors can be easily treated with the same medication as other symptoms of the disease. Medication like trihexyphenidyl is exclusively used to treat tremors. This is the most effective remedy for tremors. However, you should note that it must be used with caution, as it can lead to problems with urination and mental confusion.
2. Reducing medication dosage
There are several methods in which dyskinesia can be treated. This includes reducing the medication for Parkinson’s or beginning a course of medication known as amantadine, and opting for deep brain stimulation surgery. Therefore, it is crucial to be able to tell the difference between tremors and dyskinesias, as the treatment methods for each vary.
3. Management of dyskinesia
When it comes to managing Parkinson’s tremors and dyskinesia, it is imperative that you strike a correct balance between the medications. If there is an excess of dopamine, then the dyskinesias can occur much earlier or can worsen once they begin. However, not enough of the drug can leave patients feeling stiff and slow. In other words, it can cause one to feel off-balance as well.
4. Consult with your doctor
Additionally, a caregiver must be aware of the necessary trade-off that occurs. Only once this has been understood can make informed decisions on how to move forward. Patients may tend to feel better once they know about the treatment options. In some cases, it may be difficult to understand the right amount of dosage to help the affected from pain or a dose that causes no dyskinesia. Therefore, caregivers must educate themselves and keep an eye out for tremors and dyskinesia to find that middle ground easily.