| ENCYCLOPEDIA INDEX |
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Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test |
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
Secondary parkinsonism |
| Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention |
| Alternative Names: |
| Parkinsonism - secondary |
| Treatment: |
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Treatment is aimed controlling symptoms. If the symptoms are mild, no treatment may be required. Treatment of underlying conditions (such as stroke, infections) can reduce symptoms. Many of the medications used to treat this condition can cause severe side effects, so monitoring and follow up by the health care provider are important. Secondary parkinsonism tend to be less responsive to medical therapy than Parkinson's disease.
Good general nutrition and health are important. Exercise should continue, with the level of activity adjusted to meet the changing energy levels that may occur. Regular rest periods and avoidance of stress are recommended, because tiredness or stress can make symptoms worse. Physical therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy may help promote function and independence, and may help maintain skills and positive attitude and minimize depression. Simple aids such as railings or banisters placed in commonly used areas of the house, special eating utensils or other devices may be of great benefit to the person experiencing some difficulties with daily living activities. Social work or other counseling services may help in coping with the disorder, and obtaining assistance as appropriate (such as safety equipment, Meals-on-Wheels, volunteer services or other assistance). |
| Support Groups: |
| Emotional support may help in coping with the changes caused by the disease. This may include the National Parkinson's Foundation or other support groups (see Parkinson's disease - support group). |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
| The outcome varies and depends on the cause. If the disorder is caused by medications, it is potentially treatable. All other causes are not reversible and, to a greater or lesser degree, progressive. |
| Complications: |
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| Calling your health care provider: |
| Call your health care provider if symptoms of secondary parkinsonism develop, recur, worsen or progress. Call your health care provider if new symptoms appear in a person with this disorder, including possible side effects of medications: involuntary movements, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, changes in alertness/behavior/mood, severe confusion or disorientation, delusional behavior, hallucinations, loss of mental functions or any other new symptoms that develop (see also information on potential side effects of the specific medication). Discuss the situation with your health care provider if you are unable to care for the person at home (after initial treatment). |
Central nervous system |
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