Regular exercise, balanced diet and strong family support play vital role in managing Parkinson’s disease; experts

Marking World Parkinson’s Day, doctors at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali, called for greater awareness and early diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, while stressing that timely intervention and multidisciplinary care are critical to slowing disease progression and improving patient outcomes.

Regular exercise, balanced diet and strong family support play vital role in managing Parkinson’s disease; experts

Chandigarh: Marking World Parkinson’s Day, doctors at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali, called for greater awareness and early diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, while stressing that timely intervention and multidisciplinary care are critical to slowing disease progression and improving patient outcomes.

Dr. Sawan Kumar Verma, associate director-neurology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali, said, “Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement. The condition develops gradually and often begins with subtle symptoms, making early detection challenging yet crucial for effective management.”

Dr Verma further said that common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include tremors (shaking), stiffness, slowness of movement (bradykinesia), balance difficulties, and changes in speech or writing. In addition to motor symptoms, patients may also experience non-motor symptoms such as sleep disturbances, depression, and cognitive changes, he informed.

Parkinson’s disease is a long-term condition that requires a multidisciplinary approach to care, he said.

“While there is currently no cure, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly help in managing symptoms and improving the patient’s quality of life. Recognizing early signs such as mild tremors, stiffness, or slowed movement is key to timely intervention.”

Speaking further, Dr. Verma, said, “Treatment for Parkinson’s disease includes medications, lifestyle modifications, physiotherapy, and in some cases, advanced therapies such as deep brain stimulation. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and strong family support play a vital role in managing the disease effectively.”