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Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by degeneration (dysfunction and death) of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brainstem, which are nerve cells that control the muscles.
This will more often than not impair one or more of the person’s general motor skills, speech, posture and other functions as well as loss of confidence and prestige.
We will attempt to offer practical positive advice based on actual case studies.
Because there are so many levels and types of functions that may have been impaired, it is advisable to read throu..
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Drooling
Difficulty in swallowing and eating
Poor posture whilst seated with chin drooped in to the chest
A sudden seizure whilst walking and staying rooted to a spot
Stooped posture and walk..
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Drooling or dribbling is a common problem experienced by people with Parkinson’s. There is a delayed transmission of signals from the brain to the skeletal muscles due to diminished dopamine. By doi.. more
Drooling does not occur because more saliva is produced but because, without realizing it, the natural tendency to swallow every now and again (even when not eating) is slowed down. This, combined w.. more
In some cases, simply improving posture can alleviate the problem.
Try these simple exercises at home in front of the mirror.
Emphasize as often and as calmly as possible the need to be RELAXED...
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There are risks associated with swallowing problems. Some of these are:
Asphyxiation – food blockage of the airway which affects breathing;
Aspiration pneumonia – an infection of the chest due t..
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Swallowing and eating problems can have a tremendous impact upon a person’s quality of life at home and on their social life. People with these problems can become anxious about swallowing anythin.. more
The muscles of the jaw, face and tongue may have been weakened by the Parkinson's, which in turn affects the control a person may have over their bite. Opening and closing lips becomes a difficulty... more
Indications that a person may have a swallowing problem include:
loss of appetite
weight loss
drooling
inability to clear mouth of food
food sticking in the throat
gurgled voice
coughing when..
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Following an appropriate assessment to identify the particular problems, treatment may be suggested. This might include:
making the person with Parkinson’s and their family more aware of their part..
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