The Caring Neurologist

Welcome to another episode of The Caring Neurologist. Today, we're diving deep into an often overlooked but profoundly personal aspect of Parkinson's disease: changes in voice, speech, and communication. If you've ever felt your voice fading or been told it's harder to hear you, you're not alone, these are common experiences for those living with Parkinson's.
Join host and neurologist Dr. Sandeep Thakkar as they break down why and how Parkinson's can affect your ability to speak, exploring the underlying neurological changes, the impact on muscle control, and the emotional effects of these shifts. You'll learn about the science behind speech changes, the importance of early intervention and therapy, and practical strategies, from reading out loud to innovative technology, that can help maintain your voice and strengthen communication with loved ones.
This episode is packed with compassionate advice for both patients and caregivers, aiming to empower everyone touched by Parkinson's to speak up, stay connected, and keep their stories heard.

00:00 Parkinson’s Speech Challenges Explained
03:34 Speech Changes in Parkinson's
09:05 Early Speech Therapy Importance
12:48 Parkinson's Speech Therapy Insights
16:02 "Improving Speech Through Practice"
18:25 "Managing Postnasal Drip Issues"
21:30 Voice Amplifiers for Speech Support
26:54 "Navigating Social Outings with Illness"
28:01 "Addressing Voice Issues in Parkinson's"
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/
“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome to "The Caring Neurologist," where we shine a light on the realities, challenges, and often hidden aspects of neurological illness. In today’s episode, host Dr. Sandeep Thakkar tackles a topic that touches countless individuals and families: the intersection of Parkinson’s disease, dementia, and psychosis.
You’ll hear Dr. Sandeep Thakkar break down the misunderstood differences between Parkinson’s disease dementia, Lewy body dementia, and Alzheimer’s, clarifying not just the movement symptoms we expect, but the cognitive and personality changes that come as these diseases progress. We’ll get into why hallucinations or delusions can suddenly emerge, and what’s really going on in the brain when these symptoms arise.
Dr. Sandeep Thakkar also shares practical advice for families and caregivers, what early warning signs to look out for, how medications can help (or sometimes make things worse), and ways to manage the emotional rollercoaster that often comes with supporting a loved one through cognitive decline.
Whether you’re a caregiver feeling overwhelmed, a family member trying to understand what’s happening, or simply someone interested in the complexities of brain health, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and community. Join us as we delve into these important conversations, share real-life stories, and offer hope to everyone affected by the cognitive side of Parkinson’s disease.

00:00 "Parkinson’s Dementia and Timing"
05:19 Parkinson's Dementia Symptoms Overview
08:18 "Cognitive Symptoms in Parkinson's"
10:42 Early Signs of Parkinson's Decline
16:51 Dopamine's Effects in Parkinson's
19:46 Delusions and Cognitive Decline Factors
21:34 Sleep and Fatigue Assessment Factors
24:42 "Medicines, Brain Impact, Adjustments"
27:22 Managing Antipsychotic Medication Challenges
31:50 "Balanced Routine and Medication Tips"
36:02 Caregiver Support and Patient Care
38:48 Cognitive Care Coordination Steps
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/
“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome to another episode of The Caring Neurologist! Today, host Dr. Sandeep Thakkar dives into a truly fascinating topic that’s changing the way we think about Parkinson’s disease. When most people hear “Parkinson’s,” they picture tremors and movement challenges. But what if the earliest warning signs of this brain disorder actually begin in the gut?
In this episode, Dr. Sandeep Thakkar unravels the intricate connection between our digestive system and brain health. They discuss how early symptoms like constipation, gut inflammation, and changes in the microbiome might signal Parkinson’s long before the first tremor appears. You’ll learn about the vital role of the vagus nerve, the mysterious behavior of the alpha synuclein protein, and the potential for future diagnostics that could detect Parkinson’s through a simple gut test.
Whether you’re living with Parkinson’s, caring for someone who is, or simply curious about how the body and brain communicate, this episode will leave you with new insights and maybe some hope about the future of prevention and early intervention in neurological disease. So grab your headphones, settle in, and get ready to discover why your next healthy choice could start with your gut!

00:00 Gut-Brain Link in Parkinson's
04:43 Gut-Brain Connection and Coordination
07:25 Gut Health and Mental Clarity
10:04 Gut-Brain Axis: Cause or Effect?
14:05 Vagus Nerve's Role in Parkinson's
19:59 "Gut Health and Brain Connection"
20:53 Gut Health and Microbiome Research
24:15 "Parkinson’s Diagnosis via Gut Biomarkers"
27:38 Diet's Role in Gut Health
31:26 Oral Bacteria's Link to Disease
33:51 Parkinson's: Gut Health Matters
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/
“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome back to The Caring Neurologist, where science, stories, and breakthrough discoveries meet compassionate care. In today’s episode, host Dr. Sandeep Thakkar takes you on a deep dive into the fascinating journey of Levodopa, the drug that transformed Parkinson’s treatment and remains the gold standard decades after its introduction. From its ancient roots in Ayurvedic medicine to the groundbreaking trials that redefined patient care, you’ll learn how Levodopa works, why it’s so effective, and what the latest innovations in delivery systems mean for the future. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or just curious about neurological breakthroughs, this episode promises practical insights, myth-busting moments, and a renewed sense of hope for those navigating life with Parkinson’s.
00:00 "Levodopa: History and Significance"
04:38 Improved Levodopa Delivery Options
09:52 Levodopa vs Dopamine Agonists
13:37 Levodopa: Debunking Longevity Myths
16:32 Assessing Quality of Life in Parkinson's
19:03 "Protein-Rich Meals Impact Medication"
23:05 Advancements in Levodopa Therapies
25:42 "Learning Prevents Cognitive Decline"
28:35 Levodopa: Key in Parkinson's Care
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/
“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome back to The Caring Neurologist, where science meets storytelling and every conversation brings us closer to better care. In this episode, Dr. Sandeep Thakkar pulls back the curtain on a transformative vision for Parkinson’s and movement disorder care - a vision that challenges the outdated, fragmented healthcare system and reimagines what true, patient-centered excellence should look like.
You’ll hear Dr. Thakkar’s bold blueprint for a Center of Excellence: an integrated space where patients access everything from advanced clinical care and cutting-edge research, to on-site physical and speech therapy, nutrition consultations, mental health support, wearables, and even real-time technology solutions - all under one roof. 
We’ll dive deep into the frustrations patients and their families face navigating the system, the gaps in access and coordination, and why innovation in research and technology can’t wait another decade to reach people who need it most. If you’ve ever wondered what’s possible when we stop settling for the status quo - and how multidisciplinary, tech-enabled, compassionate care could revolutionize the patient experience - this episode is for you. 
Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, clinician, or someone who believes in progress, you won’t want to miss this inspiring discussion about building a better future for neurological care.
Timestamps:
00:00 Integrated Community Parkinson's Care
06:56 Comprehensive Care for Chronic Illnesses
08:24 Healthcare Access Without Limitations
11:09 Accessible Healthcare for All Patients
17:00 "Sensor Technology in Healthcare Monitoring"
18:08 Innovative Clinical Data Collection
23:58 Vision for a 21st Century Healthcare
27:06 Apple Watch Alerts Parkinson's Risk
31:25 Telemedicine Expansion in Healthcare
34:58 Comprehensive Health Clinic Vision
36:32 Expanding Parkinson's Research Network
39:32 Supportive Patient Inspires Podcast Efforts
43:38 Advocate in Healthcare and Research
48:02 "Visionary Healthcare: Building the Future"

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/
“Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”