Depression and Parkinson’s Disease
The mood disorder depression happens when there is a chemical imbalance in the brain. This means that for the person afflicted, experiences of great sadness and other negative emotions. Depression is very common in Parkinson’s Disease patients, and for many, symptoms of depression starts many years before symptoms of the disease itself appears. In a Parkinson’s afflicted person, depression can also have a great detrimental effect, and increase the force of the symptoms of the disease. Depression is also a very difficult mood disorder to find, as life of course also comes with natural ups and downs, however if there is a prolonged state of depression present for yourself or anyone that you know, please ensure that you contact your doctor. Symptoms of depression are; fatigue, change in appetite, changed levels of activity, low self-esteem, thoughts of death and an inability to find pleasure in things usually enjoyable.
Treatment for patients of both Parkinson’s and Depression is most commonly both including medication and therapy, and patients who receive both, are usually more successful than those opting for only medication or therapy. For each patient of course what type of medication which can be used to treat the depression is limited depending on the state and needs of the patient at hand.
Other mental disorders that may affect a Parkinson’s patient are hallucinations, delusions and paranoia, which can be side effects of the treatment for the Parkinson’s disease itself. If you believe that you may be suffering depression or displaying symptoms or signs of the disorder, please ensure that you contact your doctor for help and advice on the subject.