Kate has just been promoted at work and had a great first day in her new position. After she clocks out for the day, it's time to drive over to her parent's house to check in. Her 78-year-old father is having health problems and needs more help than her mom can provide. Kate arrives and is excited to tell her parents about her amazing day. Mom seems happy for her, but Dad's face is blank. Kate feels hurt at first but remembers he's been having problems with a monotone speaking voice, and Mom has been saying she can't read his face as well. They wonder if a lack of facial expression is yet another sign of Parkinson's disease.
What Is Facial Masking?
At Dad's next doctor's appointment, Kate asks if a lack of expression is associated with Parkinson's disease. As it turns out, a mask-like facial expression can, in fact, indicate Parkinson's. As the disease continues affecting muscles, it can spread to the face. Doctors call this symptom "facial masking" or a "masked face," and it can cause an inability to smile, raise eyebrows or generally show emotion.
Parkinson's Face and Low Voice
Parkinson's face is also associated with changes in voice. Kate remembers when she first got her promotion, and Dad just didn't seem as excited as she had expected. He spoke in monotonous sentences and came off as disinterested in her success. This was strange, but now Kate has connected the dots. Just as Parkinson's can affect the facial muscles, it also weakens the muscles involved in speech.
Approaches to Managing a Masked Face
Parkinson's disease face does not have a cure, but there are several ways to manage the symptom. Kate, Mom and Dad sit down together to discuss some approaches recommended by the doctor. They consider these options:
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Medication: Certain medications are effective for reducing rigidity in the muscles and alleviating a masked face.
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Speech Therapy: Parkinson's patients with a mask-like face may also benefit from speech therapy. Specialists can teach useful exercises that reduce masking, low voice and swallowing difficulty.
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Increasing Awareness: Kate finds that explaining facial masking to Dad's friends helps them understand his feelings better. At first, they were confused about his change in demeanor, but after telling them about Parkinson's and muscle control, they're more aware of how to interpret Dad's speech and facial expressions.
Look to BrightStar Care for Support
Facial masking and similar symptoms of Parkinson's disease can be difficult to understand. Thankfully, BrightStar Care of Naperville, IL is here to help seniors and their families. We offer a range of in-home care services to accommodate people just like Kate's dad. Get in touch with our team today to learn more about how we can serve you.