Hormones, Symptoms, and Support: What We’re Missing About Women with Parkinson’s
Welcome back to The Caring Neurologist! In today’s episode, host Dr. Sandeep Thakkar dives deep into a topic too often overlooked: the unique challenges women face with Parkinson’s disease. Although Parkinson’s is typically studied and portrayed as affecting everyone similarly often depicted as an older man with hallmark symptoms today’s conversation unpacks why that perspective misses the mark for women, and what important gaps remain in our understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of Parkinson’s in female patients.Dr. Thakkar explores how hormones like estrogen impact risk and progression, why women are often diagnosed later than men, and how symptom presentation, side effects, and even clinical research representation differ between the sexes. They also talk candidly about the emotional, psychological, and caregiving burdens unique to women living with Parkinson’s, and discuss actionable steps for doctors, advocates, and patients to move toward more gender-aware care.If you’re curious about the science, the lived experience, and what the future of Parkinson’s care could look like for women, this episode is not to be missed. Let’s get started!00:00 Parkinson's Misrepresentation in Research05:49 Gender-Neutral Healthcare Challenges07:19 Gender Disparities in Health Care12:08 Estrogen's Protective Role in Parkinson's16:07 Gender Differences in Disease Progression17:52 Misdiagnosed Health Struggles22:18 Women's Health & Environmental Risks27:00 Gender Differences in Treatment Response27:52 Addressing Gender Bias in Research32:29 Personalized Neurotransmitter Therapy for Women36:01 Gender Differences in Disease Experience40:01 Exploring Hormonal Therapies' Future41:01 Anticipating Episode 13The Caring Neurologist - Podcast Website - https://thecaringneurologist.com/ Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeep-thakkar-do-798a2499/ Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - Clinic - https://ocparkinsons.com/about-mdpds/our-team/dr-thakkar/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/
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The Hidden Connection Between Parkinson's and Sleep Disorders: Why Rest Really Matters
Welcome back to “The Caring Neurologist,” where we dive deep into the mysteries of the brain and bring practical, real-life advice straight from the clinic. In this illuminating episode, Dr. Sandeep Thakkar takes on one of the most essential and underestimated pillars of our health: sleep.Whether you’re living with Parkinson’s or just trying to get a better night’s rest, you’ll want to tune in as our hosts uncover the hidden connections between Parkinson’s disease and sleep disorders. They discuss how sleep struggles can be some of the earliest warning signs of neurological issues sometimes appearing years before classic symptoms do, why sleep disturbances are more than just an inconvenience, and how they affect everything from motor function to mood and memory.Dr. Thakkar and Ursula break down the science behind the stages of sleep, explain what’s really going on when you act out your dreams, and share actionable tips for getting better rest, plus a few surprising truths about so-called sleep “remedies” we’ve heard for generations. They also answer listener questions about shifting sleep habits, choosing the right wearable tech, and when it’s time to see a specialist.This episode isn’t just for those affected by Parkinson’s, it’s a wake-up call for anyone striving for better brain health. So grab your favorite non-dairy drink, get comfortable, and join us for an eye-opening discussion that just might change the way you sleep tonight.00:00 "Sleep's Fundamental Importance"06:06 "Stages of Sleep Explained"09:51 Parkinson's: Acting Out Dreams11:53 "Sleep Disruptions and PTSD Patterns"14:05 Medication Side Effects: Insomnia and Daytime Sleepiness19:38 Dopamine's Impact on Sleep and Cognition22:53 Sleep Deprivation and Health Impact26:12 Discussing Vivid Dream Causes28:47 Improve Sleep with Daily Habits31:08 Parkinson's and Sleep Disruption34:06 "Sugar's Impact on Sensitive Brains"39:36 Hopeful Advancements in Sleep Therapy40:40 Adaptive DBS and New Parkinson’s Treatments44:13 "See Neurologist for Movement Symptoms"46:51 Future Episode on Sleep?The Caring Neurologist - Podcast Website - https://thecaringneurologist.com/ Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeep-thakkar-do-798a2499/ Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - Clinic - https://ocparkinsons.com/about-mdpds/our-team/dr-thakkar/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/
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47:49
Personalized Medicine and the Next Frontier for Movement Disorders
Welcome back to The Caring Neurologist! In this milestone 10th episode, “The Future of Genetic Therapy in Movement Disorders,” the ever-insightful Dr. Sandeep Thakkar unravels the science and hope behind gene therapy for Parkinson’s disease and beyond. They break down what gene therapy really means, going beyond the headlines and “science fiction” buzzwords like CRISPR to explain how this groundbreaking approach aims to address the very root causes of movement disorders.Dr. Thakkar shares the latest updates on clinical trials for therapies targeting genetic mutations like GBA1, and discusses how viral delivery systems and gene editing are shaping the next wave of Parkinson’s treatments. The conversation moves from technical breakthroughs to bigger questions about safety, personalized medicine, real-world challenges, and the immense hope these advances offer for patients and families.Whether you’re living with Parkinson’s, care for someone who is, or are just fascinated by the future of medicine, this episode will leave you feeling both grounded and inspired. Stay tuned for an episode that’s as informative as it is hopeful!00:00 Gene Therapy Advances03:28 Gene Therapy for Parkinson's07:24 Gene Editing: CRISPR Explored12:43 GBA1 Mutation in Parkinson's Disease16:15 Gene Therapy: A Parkinson's Update17:09 Revolutionizing Care in Neurology21:26 Gene Therapy Advancements in Huntington's Disease26:17 Gene Therapy Delivery Challenges29:43 Genetic Insights in Parkinson's Prevention33:23 Understanding Future Changes in Gene Therapy36:16 Balance Excitement and Challenges37:37 Ozzy Osbourne's Impactful LegacyThe Caring Neurologist - Podcast Website - https://thecaringneurologist.com/ Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeep-thakkar-do-798a2499/ Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - Clinic - https://ocparkinsons.com/about-mdpds/our-team/dr-thakkar/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/
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39:24
Feeding the Mind: How Diet and Toxins Shape Brain Health and Prevent Disease
Welcome to another episode of The Caring Neurologist! In today’s insightful conversation, Dr. Sandeep Thakkar's talks about what Diet and Toxins Reveal About Brain Health. As one of the most-heard video podcasts in neurology, this episode tackles the crucial, and often misunderstood links between nutrition, environmental toxins, and brain health, especially for those living with Parkinson’s and movement disorders.Dr. Thakkar explores how what we eat truly acts as medicine for the mind, breaking down the science behind everyday foods, healthy eating patterns, and why your grocery list matters more than ever. They discuss the impact of processed foods, why the “Mediterranean” and “MIND” diets win out, and offer practical advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed by conflicting dietary guidance and environmental health news. Whether you’re looking for clear advice on what to eat, how to minimize exposure to harmful substances, or realistic steps to improve your nutrition, this episode serves as a friendly guide to boosting your brain’s health one bite at a time.Grab your favorite snack (just maybe skip the breakfast pizza), and join us for a relatable, evidence-based conversation designed to empower you on your journey to better brain health!00:00 "Food as Fuel and Medicine"05:00 Supporting Brain Health with Nutrition08:39 Small Changes for Lasting Success12:39 "Foods Harmful to Brain Health"16:29 Pesticides, Farming, and Parkinson's Link19:23 Water Contamination Awareness & Action23:22 Choosing Clean Over Costly Organic26:36 Consistent Healthy Eating Mindset29:53 Sweets Worsen Parkinson's Symptoms32:26 Enhanced Food Label Clarity36:52 "Boost Health with Habits"38:27 Artificial Sweeteners and Health ConcernsThe Caring Neurologist - Podcast Website - https://thecaringneurologist.com/ Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeep-thakkar-do-798a2499/ Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - Clinic - https://ocparkinsons.com/about-mdpds/our-team/dr-thakkar/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/
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40:39
Beyond Genetics: Why Environmental Exposures Like Pesticides Matter in Parkinson’s Disease
Welcome to the eighth episode of The Caring Neurologist with Dr. Sandeep Thakar! In this thought-provoking conversation, Dr. Thakkar dives into the alarming links between Parkinson’s disease and environmental toxins, specifically the pesticides used at golf courses and in our own backyards. Inspired by a recent JAMA Neurology study, they unravel how living near manicured greens could impact long-term brain health, what specific chemicals are involved, and why these risks matter far beyond just golfers. Together, they answer pressing questions about real-life risk, discuss practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones, and challenge us all to advocate for stronger public health measures, without giving in to panic. Whether you’re a concerned parent, a public health enthusiast, or just curious about what’s really in your water, this episode will empower you with knowledge and leave you with actionable advice. Tune in to find out what might be hiding in your backyard, and what you can do about it.00:00 Golf Course Proximity and Parkinson's Risk04:25 Golf Course Pesticide Safety Concerns08:30 Pesticides Cause Nervous System Damage10:44 Pesticide Exposure and Brain Damage15:47 Mindful Awareness of Water Safety17:52 Environmental Safety Concerns in Golf Courses20:22 "Concerns Over Industrial Farming Practices"26:06 Diet, Chemicals, and Antibiotic Concerns29:13 "Evaluating Food Safety and Diets"31:16 Air and Car Pollution ConcernsThe Caring Neurologist - Podcast Website - https://thecaringneurologist.com/ Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeep-thakkar-do-798a2499/ Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - Clinic - https://ocparkinsons.com/about-mdpds/our-team/dr-thakkar/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/
“The Caring Neurologist" - By Dr. Sandeep Thakkar is a podcast exploring the science, stories, and breakthroughs shaping the lives of those with Parkinson’s and movement disorders. Join Dr. Thakkar as he blends cutting-edge science with compassionate storytelling to empower patients, caregivers, and providers.
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