Contents
Taming the Tremors: Strategies for Managing Dyskinesia in Parkinson's
Published: May 09, 2024
Dyskinesia, or involuntary movements, is a common side effect of long-term Parkinson's treatment. It's like a dance you can't control, and finding the right steps to manage it can be tricky.
Understanding Dyskinesia
Dyskinesia often occurs when levodopa levels in the blood are highest. It's like a pendulum swinging too far in the opposite direction of Parkinson's symptoms. These movements can range from mild wiggling to large, disruptive motions. Not all dyskinesia needs treatment, but when it interferes with daily life, action is needed.
Medication Adjustments
The first step in managing dyskinesia is often adjusting Parkinson's medications. This might mean lowering the levodopa dose or changing the timing. It's like finding the right balance on a seesaw - enough medication to control Parkinson's symptoms, but not so much that it causes dyskinesia.
Add-On Treatments
When medication adjustments aren't enough, doctors may prescribe add-on treatments. Amantadine is a common choice that can help reduce dyskinesia. It's like adding a shock absorber to smooth out the bumpy ride of dyskinesia. In some cases, a drug called clozapine might be used, but it requires close monitoring.
Advanced Therapies
For severe cases, advanced therapies like deep brain stimulation or continuous medication infusion pumps might be considered. These are like installing a high-tech control system to better regulate the brain's motor functions. They can provide more stable symptom control and reduce dyskinesia in some patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, but it's more common in younger patients and with longer levodopa use.
Some studies suggest certain exercises may help manage dyskinesia.
Usually not, but it can be tiring and interfere with daily activities.
Often it can be significantly reduced, but complete elimination is challenging.
Researchers are exploring new drugs and therapies to better manage dyskinesia.
Finding Your Balance
Managing dyskinesia is about finding the right balance of treatments for your unique situation.
References
- Pahwa R, Factor SA, Lyons KE, et al. Practice Parameter: treatment of Parkinson disease with motor fluctuations and dyskinesia (an evidence-based review): report of the Quality Standards Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology. Neurology 2006; 66:983.
- Connolly BS, Lang AE. Pharmacological treatment of Parkinson disease: a review. JAMA 2014; 311:1670.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?