Finding out you have Parkinson’s in your 20s can be really surprising. Most times, we think Parkinson’s is something only older people get. But young adults can have it, too. This situation comes with its own set of challenges, like choosing treatments and making some changes in how you live.
Having Parkinson’s in 20s is tough. It’s a health issue usually seen in older folks, but here you are, young, and facing it head-on. This can make simple things like walking or writing feel hard because your body isn’t cooperating like it used to. You might shake, feel stiff, or not move as quickly. But don’t lose hope.
Experts like Dr. Gurneet Singh Sawhney, who is a neurosurgeon in Mumbai, provides the latest treatments to treat brain issues. With the right care and support, you can still do what you love and enjoy life.
Curious about the potential reasons for developing Parkinson’s in 20s? Let’s delve into the possibilities together.
Possible reasons for getting Parkinson’s disease in your 20s
Getting Parkinson’s in 20s is rare and can happen for different reasons:
- Genetics: Studies show that some children are not exempt from early Parkinson’s disease (mostly when genes run in the family).
- Environment: Items like chemicals or pollution may increase their chances.
- Brain Changes: A few have an imprint on their brains, which hinders movement, but the cause is still unknown.
- Health and Lifestyle: Along with concussions or exposure to toxins, head trauma may also contribute.
Learn more about the genetic factors contributing to Parkinson’s disease in 20s and how to take proactive steps towards better health. Contact an expert for more information.
Often, we don’t know exactly why someone gets Parkinson’s so young, which is why more research is needed.
What genetic factors lead to Parkinson’s in 20s ?
Genes can play a big part in getting Parkinson’s in your 20s.
Here are some important ones:
- PARK7 (DJ-1 gene): These variations of this gene can be very challenging to the cells to combat the stress and damage causing the disease to establish earlier.
- PINK1 (PTEN-induced kinase 1):This gene basically acts as a shield for the cells against stress. In case it fails, brain cells can go wrong, and ultimately, the person may develop Parkinson’s disease.
- PRKN (Parkin gene): These changes are associated with early-onset Parkinson’s disease. They involve the process responsible for clearing out proteins that cells no longer need.
- LRRK2 (Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2): Mostly connected with Parkinson’s that originates much later in life, some alterations in his gene can result in early as well.
- SNCA (Alpha-synuclein): Modification of such a gene can result in the development of a specific protein which aggregates in the brain, a defining feature of Parkinson’s disease.
These gene changes mess up how brain cells work, leading to Parkinson’s symptoms in 20s. But, not everyone with these changes will get Parkinson’s, and these aren’t the only reasons someone might develop the disease early.
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Curious about diagnosing Parkinson’s in your 20s? Let’s discuss the process together.
Diagnosis of Parkinson’s in 20s
When figuring out if you have Parkinson’s in your 20s, here’s what happens:
- Talking About Your Health: Your doctor will want to know about your symptoms, like shaking or stiffness, and if family members have had similar issues.
- Checking How You Move: You will experience some exercise tasks to check your movement, walking, and balance.
- Trying Parkinson’s Medicine: The doctor will try the medication specific to Parkinson’s disease in order to see if your symptoms are under control. A positive response potentially suggests Parkinson’s.
- Looking Inside Your Body: You also might have a magnetic resonance imaging machine (MRI) to get a detailed image of your brain. These tests do not diagnose Parkinson’s alone; they eliminate other conditions.
- Genetic Testing: As early-onset Parkinson’s disease is associated with genetic factors, your medical provider may also explore genetic testing.
Diagnosing Parkinson’s, especially at a young age, involves piecing together different clues. Want to explore how to manage early-onset Parkinson’s? Let’s talk about what you can do.
Ready to explore treatment options? Reach out to us for personalized support.
Treatment for early on-set of Parkinson’s disease
When young people get Parkinson’s, treatment focuses on easing symptoms and keeping life enjoyable. Here’s what doctors often recommend:
- Medicine: Some drugs can relieve some of the side effects like tremors, muscle stiffness and slow movements. Levodopa is the most used one, serving to compensate for the missing brain chemical in the case of Parkinson’s.
- Exercise: For example, going for a walk, swimming, or doing yoga can increase movement and may relieve depression.
- Therapy: Physio therapists or occupational therapists can offer exercises or pieces of advice which will help to make moving and routine tasks easier.
- Healthy Habits: Eat well, get proper sleep and spend some time doing what you love and you will find that you feel better.
- Speech and Swallowing Assistance: If speaking or swallowing becomes difficult, speech therapists are available to provide valuable strategies and support.
- Surgery: Sometimes, brain surgeons use a technique called deep brain stimulation to decrease symptoms when other approaches, such as drugs, fail to provide relief.
Treatments may need adjustments over time, so continuous communication with your doctor is key to managing Parkinson’s effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, managing early-onset Parkinson’s disease involves focusing on treatments that control symptoms and help maintain a good quality of life. This includes taking the right medications, staying active, and getting support from therapists. Making healthy lifestyle choices, like eating well and managing stress, is also important. Keep in touch with your healthcare team, as treatment plans may change over time. While dealing with Parkinson’s in your 20s comes with unique challenges, with the right approach, you can overcome them and live a fulfilling life.
Do you or a loved one experience persistent or severe back pain following a seizure? It is crucial to consult a certified neurosurgeon to ensure appropriate care and to address any potential underlying issues.
Dr. Gurneet Singh Sawhney, a highly trusted name for epilepsy surgery in Mumbai, cautions:
“If it’s their first seizure or the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, call emergency services. Also, seek immediate help if there is any difficulty breathing, injury, or if they have a known health condition like diabetes or heart disease.”
FAQ
What are the preventive measures for early on-set of Parkinson’s disease?
While there’s no guaranteed prevention for early-onset Parkinson’s disease, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and managing stress levels may help reduce the risk.
What is the youngest age with Parkinson’s?
Parkinson’s disease can affect individuals at any age, but it’s relatively rare in young people. The youngest reported cases have occurred in individuals in their twenties, but such instances are highly uncommon. Early-onset Parkinson’s disease typically manifests between the ages of 21 and 40, with symptoms appearing before the age of 50.
How common is Parkinson’s in 20s?
Parkinson’s disease can affect individuals at any age, but it’s relatively rare in young people. The youngest reported cases have occurred in individuals in their twenties, but such instances are highly uncommon.
How does Parkinson’s normally start?
Parkinson’s disease typically begins gradually with mild symptoms that may go unnoticed at first. Early signs of Parkinson’s in 20s often include tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement. As the disease progresses, these symptoms worsen and may be accompanied by difficulties with balance, coordination, and speech.