Tremors 'Spiritual Attacks' Diagnosed as Parkinson's Disease
Mama Nneka's shaking hands and nightmare-filled nights were initially blamed on spiritual attacks from her co-wife. After falling during a church deliverance session, doctors diagnosed Parkinson's Disease—a neurological condition affecting 10 million people worldwide, with Nigeria expecting a 292% increase in cases by 2050.
Parkinson's causes tremors, slow movements, and sleep disturbances that many mistake for spiritual attacks. Symptoms often appear years before diagnosis, with tremors starting in one hand and progressing to both. The condition is linked to aging, pesticides, and chemicals found in farming and industrial settings.
Treatment exists with Levodopa medication, but it's expensive (41 days' wages for a 30-day supply) and not widely available in Nigeria. Many communities lack neurological specialists, and stigma prevents early care. This April, as Parkinson's awareness month begins, consider whether persistent tremors or sleep issues might need medical attention rather than spiritual solutions.