Symptom management  By Marco Meglio & Alexa Dessy, MD NeurologyLive.com August 8, 2025      Mind Moments is a podcast from NeurologyLive, and brings you an interview with Alexa Dessy, MD, on Improving Quality of Life in Movement Disorders through Non-Motor System Management.       The 17-minute podcast is here. 

Soon after diagnosis, you will begin exploring the wide range of treatments available to help manage symptoms of Parkinson’s. Since Parkinson’s looks different for everyone, no two treatment paths will be the same. Treatment typically includes some combination of medication, exercise and rehabilitation strategies like physical and speech therapy to manage symptoms and give you the best possible quality of life. Non-medical therapies are just as important as medication. These therapies can treat or prevent many symptoms affecting movement, speech and your ability to do daily life and work activities.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. There is no cure, but treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Medications:

• Levodopa: The primary medication for Parkinson's, it increases dopamine levels in the brain.

• Dopamine agonists: These medications mimic dopamine and can help reduce tremors and stiffness.

• MAO-B inhibitors: These drugs prevent the breakdown of dopamine in the brain.

• Anticholinergics: These medications help control tremors and drooling.

Other Therapies:

• Deep brain stimulation (DBS): A surgical procedure that implants electrodes in the brain to regulate abnormal electrical activity.

• Focused ultrasound surgery (FUS): A non-invasive procedure that uses ultrasound waves to target specific areas of the brain and improve symptoms.

• Physical therapy: Exercises to improve balance, coordination, and mobility.

• Occupational therapy: Activities to help patients with daily tasks, such as dressing and eating.

• Speech therapy: To address speech problems, such as tremors and slurred speech.

• Lifestyle changes: Exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management can help improve symptoms.

Emerging Treatments:

• Gene therapy: Research is ongoing to develop gene therapies that can stop or slow the progression of Parkinson's.

• Stem cell therapy: Stem cells may have the potential to replace damaged dopamine-producing cells in the brain.

• Pharmacological interventions: New medications are being developed to target different aspects of Parkinson's pathology.

Personalized Treatment:

The best treatment plan for Parkinson's disease is individualized based on the patient's symptoms, age, and overall health. It's important to work closely with a healthcare team to determine the most effective treatment options.

Meditation and Relaxation Techniques

Meditation and relaxation techniques can take many forms. Listening to relaxing music is the most basic form. Mindful meditation can be used to relax and focus on breathing or negative emotions and thoughts. It can also be used to help a person become more aware of their surroundings or body movements. Several studies have shown a connection between Parkinson’s disease symptoms and mindful meditation.

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