Managing Young-Onset Parkinson's: A Journey of Resilience and Advanced Treatment
Living with Parkinson’s: At 38, she dismissed a hand tremor, at 49, she can manage it with surgery
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
Prajakta More, a 49-year-old homemaker from Baramati, India, has navigated the challenges of young-onset Parkinson's disease since her diagnosis at 38. After struggling with symptoms and medication, she underwent deep brain stimulation surgery, which significantly improved her quality of life and reduced her reliance on medication.
- 01Prajakta More was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson's disease at 38, a condition typically affecting older adults.
- 02Her symptoms progressed from a hand tremor to significant mobility challenges, impacting her daily life and emotional well-being.
- 03Deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery provided significant relief from symptoms, improving her mobility and reducing medication needs.
- 04The cost of DBS surgery in India ranges from ₹12 lakh to ₹20 lakh (approximately $14,500 to $24,000 USD), with varying insurance coverage.
- 05Ongoing management of Parkinson's includes lifestyle changes, diet, and regular follow-ups with specialists.
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Prajakta More, a homemaker from Baramati, Maharashtra, India, first noticed a tremor in her left hand at age 38, which she initially dismissed as fatigue. Over the years, her condition worsened, leading to a diagnosis of young-onset Parkinson's disease, a rare occurrence as the disease typically affects older individuals. By age 49, Prajakta faced significant mobility challenges, including stiffness and slowness, which affected her daily activities and emotional health. Despite initial success with medication, her symptoms progressed to advanced Parkinson's disease, prompting her to seek specialized care in Mumbai.
Dr. Pankaj Agarwal, a neurologist, explained that while medication can manage early symptoms, long-term use often leads to complications like motor fluctuations and dyskinesia. After evaluating her condition, Prajakta underwent deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery, a procedure that involves implanting electrodes in the brain to regulate movement. This intervention significantly improved her symptoms, allowing her to regain mobility and reduce her medication intake.
While DBS surgery is costly, ranging from ₹12 lakh to ₹20 lakh (approximately $14,500 to $24,000 USD), it has become a viable option for many patients with advanced Parkinson's. Prajakta's journey underscores the importance of ongoing management and support for those living with this progressive neurological disorder, emphasizing the need for lifestyle adjustments and regular consultations with specialists.
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Prajakta's experience highlights the challenges faced by individuals with young-onset Parkinson's, emphasizing the need for awareness and access to advanced treatment options.
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