Neurology

Managing the Parkinson's Disease with Dr. Guruprasad Husurkar's Expertise

Dr. Guruprasad Hosurkar Jun 07, 2024

Introduction

Every year, April 11th marks World Parkinson's Day, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about Parkinson's disease and its impact on individuals and communities worldwide. As life expectancy rises, so does the prevalence of Parkinson's disease within our society, making it more crucial than ever to understand and address this neurodegenerative condition.

Dr. Guruprasad Hosurkar, a distinguished neurologist practicing at Fortis Hospital in Bangalore, sheds light on the significance of World Parkinson's Day and shares valuable insights into the management and treatment of this complex disorder.

The Importance of Physical Activity and Exercise

The theme for Parkinson's Day 2024 emphasizes the importance of physical activity and exercise in managing Parkinson's disease. Dr. Hosurkar underscores the role of exercise not only in improving motor symptoms but also in enhancing overall well-being and quality of life for individuals living with Parkinson's.

"Exercise is one of the crucial aspects to delay the progression of Parkinson's disease alongside medications," explains Dr. Hosurkar. "Once the diagnosis is made, medication adherence becomes essential, as these medications are often lifelong companions in managing the condition."

Emerging Therapies for Parkinson's Disease

In recent years, significant advancements have been made in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, offering new hope to patients. Dr. Hosurkar highlights two innovative therapies—deep brain stimulation surgery and apomorphine pump therapy—as promising options for managing motor symptoms and improving quality of life.

"Deep brain stimulation surgery, in particular, has shown remarkable efficacy in addressing motor complications and enhancing overall quality of life for patients," says Dr. Hosurkar. "By implanting electrodes in specific brain regions and delivering continuous electrical stimulation, we can modulate neural networks and alleviate symptoms such as tremors, slowness, and stiffness."

Sleep and Parkinson's Disease

Sleep disturbances are common among individuals with Parkinson's disease, often manifesting as REM sleep behavior disorder, nocturnal awakenings, and daytime somnolence. Dr. Hosurkar emphasizes the importance of addressing these sleep-related issues to improve patients' overall quality of life.

"Sleep disturbances can significantly impact the well-being of individuals with Parkinson's disease," notes Dr. Hosurkar. "From REM sleep behavior disorder to obstructive sleep apnea and daytime somnolence, these issues require careful management to ensure restful sleep and daytime alertness."

Motor and Non-Motor Symptoms

Parkinson's disease presents a diverse array of symptoms, encompassing both motor and non-motor manifestations. Dr. Hosurkar outlines the typical motor symptoms, such as tremors, slowness of movement, and stiffness, as well as non-motor symptoms including constipation, sleep disturbances, emotional changes, and cognitive impairment.

"Parkinson's disease is a complex condition that affects both motor and non-motor functions," explains Dr. Hosurkar. "Early recognition of these symptoms is crucial for initiating timely treatment and optimizing outcomes for patients."

In conclusion, Dr. Guruprasad Hosurkar's expertise and dedication in the field of neurology, particularly in the management of Parkinson's disease, exemplify the commitment to excellence at Fortis Bangalore. As we commemorate World Parkinson's Day, let us continue to raise awareness, support research, and empower individuals living with Parkinson's to lead fulfilling lives.