Early Stage Parkinson's Intervention Methods And Trials

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Some traits that are associated with the onset of Parkinson's disease include slight tremors, muted vocals, slow movements, and muscle stiffness. These characteristics should be brought to the attention of a neurological physician. A physician will perform some examinations, to determine a patient's prognosis. In addition to receiving medical attention, participating in a clinical trial may be introduced.

The Initial Treatment Phase

There are currently no cures for Parkinson's disease. In spite of this, medical practitioners are able to offer a wide range of services that may lessen symptoms. These services include speech therapy, diet management, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy. While Parkinson's is in its earliest stages, a patient may not require medication. A neurological physician will perform a neurological exam and a physical exam, to determine if a patient's condition remains the same or worsens.

Clinical Trials

Support therapies include taking part in some trials. Clinical trials are used to acquire a better understanding of Parkinson's. Before new medications can be approved to treat patients with Parkinson's, the drugs are reviewed extensively. Observational studies are commonly performed before an early stage Parkinson's clinical trial begins. These studies involve interviewing patients. A patient's diet, medical history, and current symptoms are assessed during this type of study.

Participants in an observational study may be eligible to take part in a more complex study that involves testing out various treatments that could potentially slow down the onset of Parkinson's disease or reduce Parkinson's symptoms. A clinical study is performed in stages. During the first stage, a small group of people will be monitored. If an oral medication is going to be tested during the study, each participant may be advised to take the medication and document how they feel afterward.

Participants will be physically-monitored at times, to determine if a dosage amount is adequate and to assess various neurological functions. Additional clinical trial stages may target a larger group of people. Large-scale testing will provide scientists and doctors with more concrete results. The benefits of taking a particular drug and the side effects that people often experience as a result of taking the medication are assessed.

As the clinical study progresses, a drug may receive FDA approval. This is typically the last part of a clinical study. Participants of a study may or may not be compensated. Anyone who is interested in taking part in a study is not obligated to participate in each stage. Studies are voluntary and can end as soon as a patient prefers.


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