Frequently Asked Questions

Parkinson's disease is caused by brain degenerative nerve cells, causing a dopamine drop. In contrast, Parkinsonism can be caused due to several reasons: Side effects of medications  Chronic head injury or trauma Metabolic diseases  After effects of toxins Neurological diseases  Parkinsonism is a group of disorders that mimic symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

 Vascular Parkinsonism: reduced blood supply to some parts of the brain. The brain in that part does not function efficiently and causes Parkinson's symptoms. Post-traumatic Parkinsonism: Brian tissue damage due to chronic or repetitive brain injury, which results in reduced blood supply to parts of the brain. E.g., boxing. Toxin causing Parkinsonism: toxic chemicals which can cause changes to dopamine-releasing parts of the brain.  Normal pressure hydrocephalus: this happens when excess CSF causes pressure in parts of the brain  Postencephalitic: after encephalitis infection, Brain cells are damaged  Atypical Parkinsonism Supra nuclear palsy Multiple system atrophy Alzheimer's. Wilson's disease. Huntington's disease.

Parkinsonism can worsen only if treatment is not received at the right time. It is a reversible disorder if the reason causing Parkinsonism is removed. For, e.g., an obstructing artery, nerve pressure, or discontinuation of the medication causing it(drug-induced Parkinsonism)

Hereditary transmission of vascular Parkinsonism is rare but can happen with cases involving inherited CADASIL (cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts) & leukoencephalopathy.

Aster Hospital in Aster Medcity, Kochi, is an excellent center for treating peripheral Neuropathy in Kerala. They have a specialized dedicated unit for the surgical and auxiliary management of peripheral neuropathy cases.

Peripheral neuropathy can be dangerous when precipitated by type 2 diabetes. An infected Foot can cause severe infections or gangrene, which may lead to amputation of the limb or even multi-organ failure if the patient has other health issues.

There are several treatment modalities to help manage the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy: Medications: diabetes control and medication in the form of patches, oral tablets, or injections. Surgery: relieves nerve pressure and repairs damaged nerves which can hamper signal transmission. Physiotherapy: to improve limb stability and balance. Medical devices: to monitor blood glucose, joint braces, special Footwear. Foot care: regular checkups for any infections or cuts on feet.  Pain relief treatments: electrical stimulation therapy, spinal cord implants. Alternative healing therapies: acupuncture.

The outcome of treatment of peripheral neuropathy depends upon the cause. There may be a small percentage of cases where symptoms may be reversed after years of treatment, though it is essentially incurable. Surgery involving nerves under trauma or pressure helps relieve symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Profound control of diabetes on an everyday basis can also help.

Peripheral neuropathy is a degenerative condition that worsens over the years if treatment is not pursued. It may require medications, surgery, rehabilitative care, and occupational therapy to relieve pain and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.

There are several methods by which you can manage peripheral neuropathy symptoms like: Foot care: timely checks for cuts and calluses, especially if you have diabetes. proper diet.  Daily exercise and activity. Daily monitoring of blood glucose. Quit smoking. Quit alcohol. Try natural treatments.