Parkinson's Disease and Deep Brain Stimulation: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients and Families

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disFree Download that affects movement, balance, and coordination. It is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is essential for normal movement.

The symptoms of Parkinson's disease can vary from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include:

Parkinson's Disease and Deep Brain Stimulation: A Story of Patience, Perseverance and Hope

by Brian J. Miles

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2329 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	149 pages
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* Tremors * Rigidity * Bradykinesia (slowed movement) * Postural instability * Speech problems * Cognitive impairment

There is no cure for Parkinson's disease, but there are treatments that can help to improve symptoms. One of the most effective treatments is deep brain stimulation (DBS).

Deep Brain Stimulation

DBS is a surgical procedure that involves implanting a small pacemaker-like device into the brain. The device delivers electrical impulses to specific areas of the brain that are involved in movement. DBS can help to improve symptoms of Parkinson's disease by reducing tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia.

DBS is not a cure for Parkinson's disease, but it can help to improve symptoms and quality of life. The procedure is typically safe and effective, but there are some risks involved. These risks include:

* Infection * Bleeding * Stroke * Device malfunction

Who is a Candidate for DBS?

DBS is not right for everyone with Parkinson's disease. The best candidates for DBS are people who have:

* Advanced Parkinson's disease that is not well-controlled with medication * Significant disability due to their symptoms * No other medical conditions that would make surgery risky

The DBS Procedure

The DBS procedure is typically performed in two stages. In the first stage, the surgeon implants the DBS device into the brain. The device is placed in a specific area of the brain that is involved in movement.

In the second stage, the surgeon programs the DBS device. The device is programmed to deliver electrical impulses to the brain at a specific frequency and amplitude. The programming is adjusted over time to find the settings that provide the best symptom relief.

What to Expect After Surgery

After DBS surgery, you will likely stay in the hospital for a few days. During this time, you will be monitored closely for any complications.

Once you are discharged from the hospital, you will need to follow up with your doctor regularly. Your doctor will adjust the settings of your DBS device and monitor your progress.

Most people who have DBS surgery experience significant improvement in their symptoms. However, it is important to remember that DBS is not a cure for Parkinson's disease. The symptoms of Parkinson's disease will continue to progress over time, but DBS can help to slow the progression and improve quality of life.

DBS is a safe and effective treatment for advanced Parkinson's disease. If you are considering DBS, it is important to talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of the procedure.

This book provides a comprehensive guide to DBS for patients and families. The book includes information on the benefits and risks of DBS, the surgical procedure, and what to expect after surgery. This book is an essential resource for anyone who is considering DBS for Parkinson's disease.

Parkinson's Disease and Deep Brain Stimulation: A Story of Patience, Perseverance and Hope

by Brian J. Miles

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2329 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	149 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE