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BACKGROUND: According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Parkinson’s disease (PD) falls under a classification of conditions called motor system disorders, which occur due to a dwindling of the brain cells responsible for yielding dopamine. PD usually strikes people aged 50 or above, beginning with slighter symptoms which become more severe over time. The progression of the disease varies from person to person, as some develop more pronounced symptoms quicker than others. For this reason diagnosis can be tricky, often requiring a series of tests such as brain scans to first rule out other conditions. Since there are currently no blood or lab tests in existence capable of screening individuals for PD, diagnosis is usually based on both medical history and neurological analysis. The disease is characterized by four main symptoms:  Tremors, or trembling of the hands, limbs, face and jaw  Rigidity and stiffness in the legs, arms and trunk  Slowed movement (Bradykinesia)  Impaired posture, balance and coordination TREATMENT: Unfortunately, there is no cure for PD at present. However, there are many medications that largely reduce the painful symptoms. Patients usually receive a combination of levodopa and carbidopa, which work with nerve cells to create much-needed dopamine for the brain. Anticholinergics help to lessen rigidity and control tremors. Dopamine-mimicking drugs such as pramipexole, ropinirole and bromocriptine help neurons to function as they normally would when stimulated by dopamine. Not all symptoms are satisfied by drug treatments, but Bradykinesia often responds best. (SOURCE: NIH) EXPIRATORY MUSCLE STRENGTH TRAINING (EMST) DEVICE: Developed University of Florida lecturer and researcher Christine Sapienza Ph.D. and a team of her colleagues, the EMST device is designed to treat PD patients suffering from a decline in the functionality of their mouth and throat. This condition occurs due to a weakening of all the muscles involved in swallowing. Sapienza’s device uses a fixed pressure-release valve that won’t open unless the patient’s lungs generate enough pressure. The device forces the patient’s affected muscles to work hard to achieve that level of pressure, thus strengthening them with every use. (SOURCE: University of Florida Health Science Center) Copyright 2011 by wftv.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn