Latest updates on Parkinson's Disease

More insights into this neurodegenerative movement disorder which is becoming more common, especially in the Boomers. PREMIUM CONTENT

Parkinson disease is recognized as one of the most common neurologic disorders, affecting ~1% of individuals 60+ years. We touched on topics related to Parkinsonism in past newsletters discussing methylxanthines and smell tests.

Treating bradyarrhythmias without using pacemakers.

In particular, the methylxanthine caffeine, is protective in Parkinson’s Disease (PD). The death of dopamine-producing cells causes the movement symptoms and caffeine can enhance dopamine signaling in the brain, reversing those motor signs.

The Smell Tell: Diagnose early!

Loss of the sense of smell is a prevalent early symptom of Parkinson's disease, [90 per cent in early-stage patients] preceding the usual motor symptoms of this neurodegenerative disease by several years. Simple paper tests can screen and diagnose the disease, years ahead of motor symptoms.

Here are some more updates and insights.