6 tips to help manage Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s is a chronic disorder that affects the nervous system and the areas of the body controlled by the nervous system. It slows down body movements, making simple tasks difficult and time-consuming. The condition also causes tremors, stiff muscles, poor balance, and speech changes. Everyone has a unique set of symptoms related to this illness. Even with professional assistance, it is vital to make specific lifestyle changes to manage Parkinson’s. Here are some effective strategies.
Tips for dealing with Parkinson’s disease
Exercise regularly
Exercise benefits everyone, but it’s especially beneficial for those with this nervous system condition. Regular exercise improves physical strength, flexibility, and balance while reducing anxiety. Walking, swimming, gardening, stretching, and other forms of exercise are all beneficial. One should consult their doctor before beginning any new form of exercise to avoid complications.
Learn to maintain your balance
Incorrect posture and balance can lead to frequent falls and injuries. It is critical to move mindfully while exercising and walking. When taking a step, move slowly and always place your heel first. Keep your back straight while walking, avoid carrying objects, don’t walk backward, and use a device or a cane if your balance is severely impaired. Always look ahead while walking rather than down to avoid falling off balance.
Research
Educate yourself and your loved ones about this illness to be aware of the symptoms and complications. Discuss the condition with the doctor, know immediate contacts in case of need, and always stick to the doctor’s regimen. Attend appointments on time, notify loved ones of any concerns, and ask as many questions as possible. Knowing everything will help one understand what to expect and make the right cautious decisions.
Sleep well
This condition can also disrupt the sleep cycle and cause strange dreams. It is critical to take the necessary steps to ensure healthy sleep cycles and overall health. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine, stick to the plan, and get up early every day. This will accustom the body to a sleep pattern. Try to get plenty of natural light during the day, avoid using screens at night, avoid caffeine, and exercise at least 4 hours before bedtime to tire your body out. Keep the bedroom cool at night and avoid napping during the day to ensure better sleep at night.
Eat healthy meals
This illness can also result in bone thinning, dehydration, loss of body mass, and constipation. Eat healthy and nutritious foods to avoid these symptoms. Consume a variety of whole grains, vegetables, and fruits every day. Reduce your consumption of salt, sugar, and sodium. Consume plenty of calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and vitamin K-rich foods and eight glasses of water per day to strengthen your bones.
Seek extensive help
In addition to health professionals, other experts can be consulted to help deal with symptoms more effectively. Physical therapy can aid in improving movement, posture, and balance. Occupational therapy aids in daily activities, whereas seeking speech therapy can improve the ability to speak and swallow. Music, painting, and pet therapy can help with depression, anxiety, and sadness. In addition, opting for practices like massages and acupuncture can help relieve muscle pain and stiffness.
The most important aspect of maintaining physical and mental health is removing stress from the body. Every type of stress—physical, emotional, and chemical—causes swelling and long-term harm throughout the body. Making long-term lifestyle and food changes is one of the most beneficial ways to deal with Parkinson’s or other health problems.