The exact cause and cure for Parkinson’s disease are still eluding doctors and scientists alike. One part of our brain called “substantia nigra” produces a chemical called dopamine. This chemical conveys instruction from one part of the brain to the other whenever we want to move parts of our body. When cells that produce dopamine die, the levels of this chemical reduces. As a result, the communication process is affected, resulting in a lack of control over movements in the body. This condition is called Parkinson’s disease (PD). Levodopa is a medicine that could replace lost dopamine and helped in managing PD. As PD progresses, patients need to be treated with large doses of Levodopa and more frequently. But the constant use of Levodopa had side effects which could result in dyskinesia and its variations. Research is underway to find a cure for this too. Currently, the treatments available for dyskinesia are:

• Decrease the amount of Levodopa after consulting the doctor
• Use extended-release capsules of Amantadine: The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has approved a new medication, amantadine, for treating PD. The recommended dosage is one capsule at bedtime. It shows results in controlling dyskinesia from the very next day. Nausea, giddiness, and lack of sleep are some side effects of amantadine. Doctors have to be consulted before starting this medication.

These medicines only help to manage the disorder to a certain extent. Apart from this, another advanced procedure that has brought relief to many people with dyskinesia is deep brain stimulation (DBS).

In this surgical procedure, a doctor places an electric stimulator in the brain. Two areas of the brain are ideal for placing the stimulator. Pre-surgery tests are conducted to identify the location that is best suited to this procedure. Electrodes are placed on the side of the globus pallidus or the subthalamic nucleus. The generator which controls the electric stimulation is placed in the upper chest. The whole device is operated by a battery and will need replacement once in a few years. The simulators can either increase or slow down brain activity. It can either directly act on the brain or reduce the need for dopamine-based medication. Once the need for Levodopa reduces, the symptoms of dyskinesia also go down because of the reduction in the dosage of the medication. DBS is only recommended for those patients who do not get relief after taking medications. The procedure is safe and common, but in rare cases when there are infections and bleeding, it could lead to headaches, change in vision, and fever. New and innovative emerging technologies and stimulation techniques will help in reducing the side-effects that come with DBS.

Engaging in activities that keep the heart rate up can slow the progression of the disease. Aerobics, swimming, and cycling are some activities that can help to improve the condition. Learning to de-stress by meditating or doing Tai-chi can also help people relax as extreme emotions can increase the symptoms of dyskinesia.