Why Are Men More Prone To Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders across the globe. While this disorder is not isolated to a specific gender, Parkinson’s disease is found more frequently in men than women. Since June is Men’s Health Month, our team at Home Advantage Rehabilitation Solutions would like to discuss how men may be more prone to Parkinson’s disease. Continue reading to learn more!
Why Are Men More Prone To Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a prevalent and highly progressive neurological disease that involves a small portion of the brain known as the substantia nigra. This area is where you produce most of the dopamine your brain uses. Dopamine transmits messages between the nerves that control muscle movement and those involved in your brain’s reward and pleasure centers. As a person ages, it’s normal for cells in the substantia nigra to die, but this process occurs in most people at a very slow rate. Unfortunately for some, this loss occurs rapidly. This is the start of Parkinson’s disease. When more than 50 percent of the cells are gone, the symptoms of Parkinson’s become visible. Some of the symptoms of Parkinson’s could include:
- Tremors.
- Slow movement.
- Impaired balance.
- Falls.
- Bradykinesia.
- Sleep issues.
- Dyskinesia.
Unfortunately, there is a difference in the rate of Parkinson’s disease between men and women. Women tend to develop Parkinson’s disease two years later than men. Some research also suggests that the explanation for these differences could be more exposure to occupational toxins in men, genetic susceptibility, and a higher rate of minor head trauma. Parkinson’s disease can progress rapidly and quickly rob individuals of their mobility and independence. At Home Advantage Rehabilitation Solutions, we partner with our patients with Parkinson’s to help manage symptoms, maintain their fitness, and help them stay as active as possible.
Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease
Since Parkinson’s disease affects every person differently, our physical therapists will collaborate with you to manage your specific needs as your condition changes. Our therapists will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the best treatment plan to help you stay as independent as possible. Our physical therapy programs aim to help you:
- Improve your strength and flexibility.
- Decrease your fall risk.
- Perform necessary daily functions.
- Improve your hand movements.
Contact Us
Parkinson’s disease can significantly impair your movement and erode your cognitive acuity. At Home Advantage Rehabilitation Solutions, our programs are designed to help ease symptoms for patients and help them maintain as much independence as possible. To learn more about physical therapy for Parkinson’s disease, be sure to contact us today!