A World Parkinson's Day morning tea for people affected in the Wauchope area is being held on Thursday April 4.
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It's in the Wauchope Community Health Meeting Room, next to the hospital from 10am to noon. Tea or coffee will be provided and people are asked to bring a plate.
It's run by the Port Macquarie Parkinson's Support Group which meets on the third Friday of every month at the Rotary Hall at Hamilton Green.
The group supports people living with the disease and gives them, their carers and families chances to:
- share experiences
- access resources from the group's library
- take part in events and activities
- join the carer's support sub-group
- exchange ideas, hints and tips
- enjoy fun, social activities and
- stay up-to-date with the latest research and treatment available
Parkinson's disease is a disorder of the nervous system. It results from damage to the nerve cells in a region of the brain that produces dopamine, a chemical that is vital for the smooth control of muscles and movement.
Parkinson's disease mainly affects people aged over 65, but it can come on earlier. Doctors don't yet know the cause of the disorder, and it's thought to be inherited in only a small proportion of cases. Exposure to certain toxins in the environment is also thought to play a small role.
The main symptoms of Parkinson's disease are:
- tremor or shaking, which usually begins in one arm or hand
- muscle rigidity or stiffness
- slowing of movement
- stooped posture
- balance problems
Parkinson's can also cause pain, depression and problems with memory and sleep. There is no cure for Parkinson's disease. However, symptoms can be treated with a combination of the following:
- medicines to increase or substitute for dopamine
- a healthy diet with regular exercise
- modifications to the physical environment at home and work
- brain surgery
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