More than ten years after retiring from his football career, Brett Favre has disclosed that he has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. During a congressional hearing, Favre shared this recent diagnosis, shedding light on the impacts of the disease. Annually, there are nearly 90,000 new cases of Parkinson’s disease reported in the United States as stated by the Parkinson’s Foundation.
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that affects individuals’ ability to control their movements. The onset of the disease is often marked by tremors and is characterized by slow movement, a shuffling gait, stiff limbs, balance issues, and slurred speech. It gradually progresses, significantly impacting the quality of life of those affected.
Approximately 1 million Americans and 10 million individuals worldwide are currently living with Parkinson’s disease, with most cases being diagnosed in individuals over the age of 60, although there are instances where it can manifest before the age of 50. The exact cause of Parkinson’s is still unknown; however, experts believe it occurs when cells responsible for producing dopamine in the brain begin to degenerate and die.
While there is no definitive cure for Parkinson’s disease, various treatment options are available to help manage symptoms. These include medications that regulate dopamine levels and even a surgically implanted device that can help control tremors. In addition to medical interventions, physical and occupational therapy can also be beneficial in improving a patient’s quality of life.
The progression of Parkinson’s disease varies from person to person, with symptoms worsening gradually over time. In advanced stages, individuals may struggle with basic tasks like walking and self-care, and may also experience mental health challenges such as depression, memory issues, and cognitive decline. While Parkinson’s itself is not categorized as fatal, complications of the disease such as lung problems due to muscle weakness affecting coughing and swallowing can pose serious risks to individuals affected.