lifestyle

Lifestyle Choices In Young Age May Trigger Parkinson's Symptoms

Dr. Rizka Ibonita Sp.N, a neurologist at the National Brain Center Hospital, has noted an increasing prevalence of Parkinson's symptoms among younger individuals, attributing this trend to unhealthy lifestyle choices. 

"Excessive late nights, alcohol consumption, particularly hard liquor, and drug use can significantly impair brain function, disrupt hormones—especially dopamine—and contribute to issues such as head injuries," Dr. Rizka stated during an online discussion commemorating Parkinson's Day last week. 

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the nervous system, particularly the brain regions responsible for movement control. This condition leads to difficulties in managing bodily movements and maintaining balance. 

Dr. Rizka explained that while Parkinson's is typically associated with individuals aged 60 and older due to natural aging and the decline of organ and brain function, there has been a shift towards younger populations, often referred to as Young-onset Parkinson's disease (YOPD). 

In adolescents, Parkinson's symptoms may arise from the use of antidepressants influenced by social environments, as well as the consumption of narcotics and other harmful substances that can adversely affect long-term health as one ages. 

She indicated that symptoms of Parkinson's in younger individuals often manifest around the age of 20, presenting as tremors in the limbs even at rest, stiffness, slowness of movement, or balance issues. 

Additionally, factors such as head trauma, a family history of Parkinson's, and exposure to industrial chemicals can elevate the risk of developing Parkinson's symptoms in the years to come. 

"If there has been a head injury, especially from an accident, symptoms may not appear immediately but could emerge several years later, potentially contributing to the onset of Parkinson's," she remarked. 

Dr. Rizka emphasized that early signs, such as forgetfulness and hallucinations, can occur well before the more recognizable motor symptoms like tremors. 

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Tag: Lifestyle Organ And Brain Function YOPD