Treatment
| The main treatment for Parkinson’s is drug therapy. Surgical techniques are also available for some people.
Drug therapy The decision to take medication depends on the individual and on a variety of factors such as
Consult your doctor to help choose the medication that will best suit your individual situation. See new info sheet: Parkinson's Medications...What you need to know! (PDF) The purpose of drug therapy is to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Drugs will not stop the progression of the disease. Drugs can help you function on a daily basis; but may cause side effects that need to be managed. Finding the right balance may take time. It is important to contact your doctor to report benefits or problems you may be experiencing. Taking your medication at the right time every day is very important. Parkinson Society Canada has developed the I have Parkinson’s Medication Card (PDF) to help keep track of drugs. For a copy, contact general.info@parkinson.ca. Surgical options Surgical treatment for Parkinson’s can be beneficial for some people. Surgery is not a standard treatment for everyone with Parkinson’s; but can be considered after drug therapy has been tried. Procedures involve inserting a probe into the brain and targeting specific areas that may control tremor or involuntary movements. Talk with your neurologist to determine whether you might be a candidate for surgery. A comprehensive assessment will need to be done before a decision is made. Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson Disease: An Expert Consensus and Review of Key Issues. |
