Living with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is about more than just navigating the tremors, stiffness, and slowed movements. It’s a deeply personal journey filled with ups and downs, emotional and mental challenges.
We deeply recognize and empathize with these challenges, understanding that living with Parkinson’s Disease extends well beyond the neurological markers. .
Our intention isn’t only to educate about the factors influencing Parkinson’s but to be a pillar of support as you navigate this path.
We want to equip you with tools, insights, and resources, with the goal of ensuring that despite the hurdles of Parkinson’s Disease, your life remains as vibrant and full as possible!
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurodegenerative condition primarily impacting dopamine-producing neurons in the brain.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in coordinating smooth and balanced muscle movement. When these cells die, the level of dopamine in the brain decreases, leading to the movement symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.
Also, in the brains of individuals with Parkinson’s Disease, clumps of proteins called Lewy bodies are often found. The presence of a particular protein, alpha-synuclein, within these Lewy bodies is believed to be linked to Parkinson’s Disease.
Parkinson’s Disease hallmarks include tremors, stiffness, and slowed movements. But beyond these visible manifestations, what’s often overlooked is the role of genetic mutations, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction, which potentially play pivotal roles in its onset and progression.
Early Signs of Parkinson’s Disease
The onset of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is often subtle, making it tricky to diagnose. The initial signs might appear mundane, but they provide crucial clues about the condition.
Here’s a glimpse into the early symptoms:
- Tremor: A slight shake or tremble in a finger, thumb, hand, or chin when at rest, often referred to as a “resting tremor.”
- Handwriting Changes: A noticeable difference in the size or style of your handwriting. The writing may appear smaller and more cramped, known as “micrographia.”
- Reduced Facial Expressions: Reduced blinking or less animated facial expressions, often described as a “masked face.”
- Slowed Movements (Bradykinesia): Over time, Parkinson’s may reduce your ability to move and slow down your movements, making everyday tasks challenging and time-consuming.
- Rigid Muscles: Muscle stiffness, which can occur in any part of the body, sometimes causing pain.
- Altered Posture and Balance: A stooped posture, unsteadiness, or balance problems.
- Voice Changes: The voice might become softer or even monotone, often without the individual realizing.
- Decreased Arm Swing: A reduced swinging of one arm when walking.
- Difficulty with Automatic Movements: Reduced ability to perform unconscious movements, including blinking, smiling, or swinging arms when walking.
- Sleep Difficulties: Trouble sleeping or waking up frequently during the night.
- Loss of Smell: Some people might notice a reduced sense of smell, although not everyone with Parkinson’s experiences this.
It’s important to note that many of these symptoms can also be associated with other conditions or the aging process itself. If someone suspects they might have Parkinson’s Disease or observes these changes, get in contact with a Functional Medicine doctor right away so we can halt the progression as soon as possible.
How Functional Medicine Can Help Parkinson’s Disease
Within this hidden ground of imbalances, toxicities, underlying infections, and deficiencies, is where Functional Medicine can help.
1. Gut Health and Parkinson’s Disease
Increasingly termed the ‘second brain,’ the gut, with its trillion-strong microbiota, is a hub of activity linked to numerous health conditions, including Parkinson’s Disease.
- Dysbiosis and Parkinson’s: A balance in gut microbiota is essential for various functions, from digestion to immunity. In many Parkinson’s Disease patients, an imbalance or dysbiosis has been observed. This dysbiosis can result in gut inflammation, which in turn might exacerbate neuroinflammation—a key component in PD progression.
3. Underlying Infections
Certain underlying infections could play a role in Parkinson’s Disease’s development or progression. Some of these infections include:
- Helicobacter pylori: This stomach bacteria, known for causing ulcers, has been linked to Parkinson’s Disease. Studies have found that PD patients infected with H. pylori tend to have more severe motor symptoms and decreased medication efficacy. Addressing this infection might offer some relief or slow symptom progression.
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): There’s some evidence to suggest that HSV infections might be linked to neurodegenerative diseases like PD, though the connection is still under investigation.
- Borrelia burgdorferi: The bacteria responsible for Lyme disease. Chronic Lyme disease and its associated neurologic symptoms can sometimes mimic or exacerbate the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.
- Influenza A virus: Some studies have proposed a potential link between Influenza A and a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s Disease later in life.
- Streptococcus: Past infections with certain streptococcal bacteria have been proposed as potential triggers for the development of autoimmune responses that might impact brain function.
- Chlamydia pneumoniae: A type of bacteria that causes pneumonia and other illnesses. There’s preliminary evidence to suggest a possible connection between this bacteria and Parkinson’s Disease.
- Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs): These are remnants of ancient viral infections found in our DNA, and some research hints at a potential role of HERVs in PD.
It’s essential to emphasize that while these infections are being researched in connection with PD, none are confirmed as direct causes of the disease. Instead, they may act as factors that exacerbate its progression or trigger its onset in genetically predisposed individuals.
4. Environmental Toxins And Parkinson’s Disease
Our surroundings can harbor elements detrimental to neurological health and contribute to Parkinson Disease.
- Pesticides: Chemicals like rotenone and paraquat, found in certain pesticides, have shown neurotoxic properties. Chronic exposure, especially in agricultural settings, can elevate Parkinson’s Disease risk.
- Heavy Metals: Metals such as lead, mercury, and manganese can be neurotoxic when present in high levels. Chronic exposure, be it through contaminated water, food, or even certain occupations, can become a silent contributor to neurological ailments, including PD.
In functional medicine, pinpointing these toxic exposures, followed by detoxification protocols, can be a significant intervention strategy.
5. Nutritional Deficiencies Can Progress Parkinson Disease
The body’s nutritional profile isn’t just about sustenance; it’s about optimization.
- Vitamin D: A notable portion of Parkinson’s Disease patients have been found deficient in this essential vitamin, which is crucial for bone health, immunity, and also possesses neuroprotective properties. Ensuring optimal levels might provide a defense against Parkinson Disease’s rapid progression.
- B Vitamins: Vital for cognitive health and nerve function, deficiencies in B vitamins, especially B12 and folic acid, can exacerbate neurological decline. Regular monitoring and supplementation can make a difference in managing Parkinson’s Disease symptoms.
Parkinson’s Disease, though primarily a neurological condition, interlaces with various facets of our health. Through the lens of functional medicine, we see the profound influence of gut health, infections, toxicities, and deficiencies. By addressing these interconnected factors, we hope to not just manage but potentially slow the progression and enhance the quality of life for those with Parkinson’s Disease.
Book A Consultation Call Today
If you or a loved one is struggling with Parkinson Disease, please book a one 30-Minute consultation with Dr. Jamie Ahn via In-person, Zoom or phone. She is a Functional Medicine and Naturopathic Doctor in Norwalk CT.
