ACH
excites nerves and causes muscle contraction
dopamine
relaxes nerves and muscles
In Parkinson's dopamine is
decreased
risk factors for Parkinson's
-pesticides / chemicals
-age
-concussions
-gender (more male than female)
signs of Parkinson's
-shakiness --> tremor
-stiffness
-slowed down movements
-problems with balance --> unstable (later on in disease)
cause of Parkinson's
not known --> idiopathic
-15% of family history --> mutation of genes
role of dopamine
balances the excitement and gives us smooth coordinated movements in the body
4 cardinal symptoms of Parkinson's
-tremor --> pill rolling
-rigidity (stiffness)
-bradykinesia --> slow movement
-postural instability --> stooped posture
primary
develops gradually over time
secondary
due to drugs, chemicals, more are getting diagnosed at a young age
diagnosis
-no specific diagnostics
-diagnose by exclusion
CT/MRI to rule out other disease
CSF --> decreased dopamine level
wearing off syndrome
may be effective at one time but may not be the next day
PT education
advise PT to avoid high protein meals and snacks
avoid pregnancy while on levodopa
dont discontinue meds abruptly
nursing interventions
-prevent aspiration pneumonia
-provide safe mobility
-provide warm baths and active ROM
-provide splints to decrease contractors
-adequate hydration
-frequent rest periods