Recently, a team of researchers looked at early signs of Parkinson’s disease with the hopes of helping doctors to detect the disease earlier, and thus provide for better treatment for those that do get diagnosed with Parkinson’s.
The team found that changes in speech might be one of the first symptoms of Parkinson’s to appear.
The research team, based out of Lithuania, used voice data to attempt to learn more about Parkinson’s and its onset. They believe that minor changes in speech will occur earlier than changes in other aspects of the body. Using computer technology to analyze speech can speed up the process of detection.
The team was quick to point out that computer voice analysis should not replace working with medical professionals. This is not yet a reliable method of diagnosing the disease, but rather one method of determining if a change has occurred at all. It should be used as one tool, and not the only tool.
There are more than ten million people in the world suffering from Parkinson’s. Typically, involuntary movements and balance problems are hallmark symptoms of the disease. But these involuntary muscle movements don’t impact just movement. They also impact vocal cords, the diaphragm, and other muscles that control breathing and speech. The more we understand about the disease, the more we can help these people.
Changes in speech are not unique to Parkinson’s disease. This can happen because of a stroke, dementia, or other disease or illness. It can also occur as part of the normal aging process, depending on the individual. However, this research does provide support for medical intervention when altered speech is first noticed. The sooner treatment can begin for a major disease like Parkinson’s, the longer serious symptoms can be avoided.
There’s no cure for Parkinson’s at this point, just treatment. Hopefully, this research can get doctors one step closer to a cure. The team published their findings in the medical journal, Applied Sciences.
Many aspects of aging can be difficult to deal with, both physically and emotionally. When it comes to altered language, it might not seem like a big deal at first, but it can be quite emotionally taxing. It can also be an indicator that there’s a bigger problem at hand. This is why it’s so important that you speak with a doctor when there are changes to your health or you have questions or concerns. A doctor that is familiar with you and your story can help answer the questions that directly pertain to your health.
Personalized attention is important when it comes to healthcare, and it’s important when it comes to senior care, too. In-home care can help to achieve this. If you’d like to learn more about senior care and how it might help your family, please get in touch with us. One of our trained professionals would be happy to sit with you during a free consultation session and answer your care questions. It’s free, it’s informational, and it’s designed to get you pointed in the right direction.
All it takes is a call or email to get started.
Leave a Reply