Cardiovascular Complications In Parkinson’s Disease: Mechanisms, Prevalence, And Management

Abstract

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms. Cardiovascular complications in PD are increasingly recognized as significant contributors to morbidity and mortality. These complications are primarily caused by autonomic dysfunction, with mechanisms such as cardiac sympathetic denervation, vascular stiffness, and neurogenic orthostatic hypotension. Additionally, the deposition of alpha-synuclein, a hallmark of PD, plays a key role in disrupting cardiovascular function. Patients with PD are at an elevated risk for arrhythmias, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, and stroke, often exacerbated by traditional cardiovascular risk factors like hypertension and diabetes. Effective management of cardiovascular complications in PD requires a multifaceted approach, including both pharmacological interventions (e.g., midodrine, droxidopa) and non-pharmacological strategies (e.g., lifestyle modifications, physical activity, and multidisciplinary care). Regular monitoring and individualized treatment plans are critical to improving patient outcomes and reducing the risk of severe cardiovascular events. Future research into the molecular pathways linking PD to cardiovascular disease may yield novel therapeutic targets, enhancing the effectiveness of treatment approaches.