Early Onset of Parkinson’s disease, Causes, and Risk Factors

Parkinson’s disease can occur at any age, it is not common to have Parkinson’s at a young age as 40. People usually get diagnosed with Parkinson’s at the age of 60 & above.

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

PD is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, that results in the deterioration of some parts of our brain.

Parkinson’s is a brain disorder that can cause unintended movement like shaking or tremors in limbs. Sometimes it just starts with a barely noticeable tremor in one hand. PD starts slowly and worsens over time.

As per a neurologist doctor in Delhi, Dr. Mukesh Kumar,  gene mutation plays a major role in the occurrence of this disease. In most cases, a family history of PD serves as a major risk factor. He further stated that nowadays our young generation is also falling into the hand of this debilitating brain disorder.

What is the early onset of Parkinson’s Disease?

The early onset of Parkinson’s Disease (EOPD) occurs at the age of 40 to 50. In some cases, it can also occur in individuals under 40. Again the gene plays a major role in this early onset.

As per neurology specialists, young individuals may have totally different experiences of the disease. The symptoms they experience, and how they react may totally differ from the old age people. Progress of the disease can also be slower in such cases.

How does early onset differ from classic PD?

•             In the case of young onset progression from one stage to another takes a longer period than in typical onset.

•             In early onset uncontrolled, involuntary movements are developed due to the long-term usage of medication like levodopa, Thus doctors usually do not advise this drug for EOPD.

•             Dystonias in the neck, foot, or hand is most commonly seen compared to cognitive problems in elders like thinking problems, balance, or memory issues.

•             Genetics is a major risk factor in EOPD, and in the case of typical PD environmental factors play a huge role.

Some researchers have suggested to lookout the possible secondary causes of EOPD, they can be Wilson disease, iron accumulation disorders, or drug-induced Parkinson’s.

 

Management of EOPD

Young individuals have to face a degrading quality of life with this progressive disorder. With their gradually worsening quality of life, they have different expectations from treatment than the usual patients.

As per the best neurologist in Delhi An early onset can hamper the mental health of the individual resulting in depression, which is why a change in lifestyle, along with a supportive environment is suggested.

You can consult with neurologist Dr. Mukesh Kumar at Max Super Speciality Hospital for proper management of EOPD.