Parkinsons
Parkinsons services offered in Wichita Falls, TX
If you have tremors (involuntary shaking), rigid muscles, or impaired balance, it could be due to a neurological condition called Parkinson’s disease. At Neurology Center of Wichita Falls: Jessica L. Schultz, MD, in Wichita Falls, Texas, Jessica Schultz, MD; Kimberly Pollock, NP; and their staff diagnose and treat Parkinson’s disease to minimize symptoms and the risk of complications. Call the office to learn more or schedule an appointment online today.
What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a nervous system disorder that affects your body’s movements. Symptoms often appear gradually and may begin with tremors. The condition often progresses over time without proper treatment. See Dr. Schultz at the first sign of a problem.
What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease?
Common symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease include:
Tremors
Rigid muscles
Poor balance
Bad posture
Slowed movements
Loss of automatic movements
Difficulty smiling, blinking, or swinging your arms
Problems writing
Slurred speech
Other speech problems
Your symptoms could be mild and get worse over time. They might occur on just one side of your body and eventually affect both sides.
Complications linked with untreated Parkinson's disease include dementia, depression, chewing or swallowing problems, and sleep disorders. Constipation, bladder problems, and sexual dysfunction can also occur.
What are the risk factors for Parkinson’s disease?
The cause of Parkinson's disease isn’t clear, but factors that appear to increase your risk of developing it include:
Family history of Parkinson’s disease
Environmental toxin exposure
Older age
Being a man
The best way to reduce your chance of having Parkinson’s disease is to adopt healthy habits, such as getting regular exercise and eating nutritious foods. However, the exact prevention strategies for Parkinson’s disease aren’t known.
How does my provider diagnose Parkinson’s disease?
To find out if you have Parkinson’s disease, the team reviews your symptoms and medical history. They check your vital signs and completes physical and neurological exams. They may order lab tests, an MRI, an ultrasound, a PET scan, or another imaging procedure to detect or rule out additional problems.
In order to confirm her diagnosis, the team might give you medication to see if your symptoms subside.
How is Parkinson’s disease treated?
At Neurology Center of Wichita Falls: Jessica L. Schultz, MD, uses a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. They may recommend:
Medications
Taking medications can reduce symptoms or the progression of Parkinson’s disease.
Lifestyle changes
Eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, getting plenty of sleep, and trying stress-relieving strategies may minimize unpleasant symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Therapy
Neurology Center of Wichita Falls: Jessica L. Schultz, MD, offers physical therapy, speech therapy, and community programs to help you better manage Parkinson’s disease and its complications.
To find out if you have Parkinson’s disease or get treated for it, call the Neurology Center of Wichita Falls: Jessica L. Schultz, MD, or use the online booking tab today.
Back