Anxiety and stress can have an effect on your mind in a variety of methods and may have each long run and short-term results. Being anxious on a regular basis can disrupt the stability of neurotransmitters within the mind, resulting in imbalances that may have an effect on temper, behaviour, and cognitive operate. Chronic stress can shrink some elements of the mind and have an effect on reminiscence and studying. They are additionally recognized to trigger temper swings and lowered decision-making talents. According to current research, stress and nervousness can set off Parkinson’s illness, dysfunction of central nervous system. (Also learn: Early signs of brain diseases while sleeping you should not ignore)

Can stress and nervousness set off Parkinson’s?

“Anxiety and stress can trigger Parkinson’s because they can cause the body to produce high levels of the stress hormone cortisol. This can cause a cascade of reactions that can lead to the release of free radicals and inflammation, which can damage the brain cells responsible for controlling movement. In addition, stress and anxiety can also lead to the abnormal formation of proteins in the brain, which is a hallmark of Parkinson’s disease. Furthermore, chronic stress can also cause the body to become resistant to the effects of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps to control movement. This can lead to a further decline in movement control, which can lead to the development of Parkinson’s,” says Dr Shekhar Patil, Consultant – Adult & Paediatric Neurology, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s indicators and signs as per Dr Patil might embody tremors or shaking, normally within the fingers, arms, legs, jaw, and face, stiffness or lowered motion of the arms, legs, and torso, slowness of motion(bradykinesia), impaired stability and coordination, lack of automated actions reminiscent of blinking, problem in talking or swallowing, modifications in facial features, writing difficulties, an elevated danger of despair and nervousness and constipation.

Is it nervousness or Parkinson’s, the best way to distinguish between signs?

It will be tough to tell apart between nervousness and Parkinson’s illness, as they share comparable signs. The key to differentiating between the 2 is to know the reason for the signs.

“With anxiety, the symptoms are caused by an overactive or over reactive fear response. With Parkinson’s, the symptoms are caused by a lack of dopamine production in the brain. Common symptoms of anxiety can include restlessness, feeling tense or on edge, difficulty sleeping, racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, feeling irritable, excessive worrying and fear,” says Dr Patil.

“Common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can include tremors, difficulty with balance and coordination, rigidity of muscles, slowness of movement, difficulty with daily activities, difficulty speaking, and changes in handwriting,” provides the knowledgeable.

If you’re experiencing any of those signs, you will need to converse together with your physician for an official analysis. They might be able to distinguish between nervousness and Parkinson’s illness based mostly in your medical historical past, neurological examination, and laboratory assessments.

Tips to manage stress and nervousness ranges in order to stop Parkinson’s

Dr Patil additionally suggests methods to observe stress ranges regularly.

Exercise repeatedly: Exercise will help cut back stress and nervousness ranges and is a vital a part of managing Parkinson’s illness. Regular bodily exercise, reminiscent of strolling or swimming, will help cut back stress and nervousness.

Get sufficient sleep: Sleep deprivation can result in a rise in stress and nervousness ranges. Aim to get not less than 7-8 hours of sleep every night time.

Eat wholesome: Eating a balanced weight-reduction plan and avoiding processed meals will help preserve stress and nervousness ranges low.

Connect with family and friends: Social interplay will help cut back stress and nervousness, so ensure to spend time with household and mates.

Try rest strategies: Deep respiration, progressive muscle rest, guided imagery, and different rest strategies will help cut back stress and nervousness.

Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is the apply of being conscious and current within the second with out judgment. Practicing mindfulness will help cut back stress and nervousness.

Talk to your physician: If you’re experiencing extreme or persistent stress and nervousness, discuss to your physician about medicines or different therapies that may assist.

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