The Caring Neurologist

TopHealth Media
  • 4.8 (18)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Biweekly

“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.

  1. Oct 2

    Understanding and Managing Pain in Parkinson’s Disease

    Welcome to another episode of The Caring Neurologist. Today, we're diving into an often overlooked, but deeply impactful aspect of Parkinson’s disease: pain. While tremor, stiffness, and slowness frequently take center stage in both diagnosis and treatment, pain is a symptom that is rarely addressed, yet it affects more than half of people living with Parkinson’s. In this episode, Dr. Sandeep Thakkar highlights the different types of pain experienced by those with Parkinson’s, ranging from musculoskeletal discomfort and dystonia to neuropathic and central pain and explains why these symptoms are frequently missed or misdiagnosed. We’ll explore how pain can be influenced by medication timing, why it doesn't always correlate with how controlled other Parkinson’s symptoms are, and most importantly, what steps patients and their care teams can take to recognize, manage, and reduce pain so they can maintain their best possible quality of life. If you or a loved one has Parkinson’s, or if you’re a healthcare provider looking to better support your patients, this episode is essential listening. Let’s begin the conversation about pain in Parkinson’s, the symptom that nobody asks about. 00:00 Understanding dystonia and related symptoms 05:01 Identifying early Parkinson's symptoms 07:39 Managing Parkinson's symptoms and diagnosis challenges 10:14 Managing pain and medication timing 14:51 Discussing pain management in Parkinson's 17:08 Discussing GABA deficits in Parkinson's 22:53 Understanding Parkinson's pain symptoms 25:48 Managing muscle cramps in Parkinson's 27:42 Managing Musculoskeletal Pain 32:13 Struggles with foot pain and shoes 34:13 When to seek emergency help 36:34 Misconceptions about pain and Parkinson's 42:30 Managing Parkinson's with Less Narcotics 43:44 Thanking Dr. T for insights 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.”

  2. Sep 21

    Parkinson’s and Purpose: How Thomas Dumont Keeps Creating and Inspiring

    A Parkinson’s diagnosis is life-changing, but it doesn’t erase creativity, passion, or purpose. On this episode of The Caring Neurologist, Dr. Thakkar sits down with renowned musician and producer Thomas Dumont, best known for his work with No Doubt, to discuss his personal journey living and performing with Parkinson’s disease. Thomas Dumont shares his first signs and symptoms, the difficult road to diagnosis, and the ways that Parkinson’s has challenged, but not defined his relationship with music and everyday life. From the highs of performing in Las Vegas to the lows of navigating daily fatigue and apathy, Thomas Dumont offers honest insight into resilience, adaptation, and the importance of finding new sources of motivation and joy. Whether facing a new diagnosis or supporting a loved one through theirs, this conversation reminds us that even when life’s tempo changes, the music doesn’t have to stop. 00:00 Experiencing brain fog while walking 03:39 Experiencing afternoon brain fog 07:19 Starting to feel better on medication 11:17 Parkinson's impact on guitar playing 13:15 Recognizing and Managing Parkinson's Symptoms 17:30 Managing medication during performances 22:38 Finding balance in everyday life 26:30 Social interactions at the grocery store 29:16 Telling the kids about diagnosis 32:48 Finding Motivation in Mundane Tasks 36:25 Supporting son's music journey 37:32 Performing with medication concerns 41:48 Living life with resilience 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.”

  3. Sep 3

    Caregiver Burnout in Parkinson’s: Why Rest, Boundaries, and Support Matter

    Welcome to The Caring Neurologist. In today's episode, we're turning our attention to the unsung heroes supporting patients with Parkinson’s disease: the caregivers. While Parkinson’s care often centers around patient needs, it’s the family members and loved ones behind the scenes who quietly hold everything together, often at the expense of their own health, boundaries, and rest. Host Dr. Sandeep Thakkar dives deep into the realities of caregiver burnout, why it so often goes unspoken, and how the demands emotional, physical, and psychological accumulate over years. We’ll explore the hidden epidemic of guilt and exhaustion, the impact on patient outcomes, and the importance of setting healthy boundaries to sustain both patient and caregiver well-being. If you’re a caregiver, or love someone who is, this episode is for you. Let’s learn how recognizing and supporting those who care can make all the difference. 00:00 Caregiver challenges in Parkinson's 03:09 Caregiver challenges in Parkinson's care 07:50 Emotional toll on caregivers 13:03 Caregiver psychological struggles 15:48 Observing caregiver and patient dynamics 19:42 Caregiver burnout and patient risks 23:40 Setting personal boundaries for caregivers 25:15 Encouraging patient independence 29:01 Delegating family caregiving tasks 34:01 Caregiver stress and memory issues 37:21 Supporting Caregivers and Preventing Burnout 38:37 Empowering caregivers with resources 43:17 Challenges of Elder Caregiving 48:31 Planning for Long-term Care 49:58 Caregiving and logistical planning 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.”

  4. Aug 20

    Parkinson’s and Driving When Safety and Independence Collide

    Driving is more than just a way to get from place to place, it's a symbol of independence, identity, and dignity. For people living with Parkinson's disease and other neurological conditions, the question of when and how to adjust or stop driving becomes an emotional and challenging topic. In this episode of The Caring Neurologist, Dr. Sandeep Thakkar guides listeners through the complex intersection of safety, compassion, and clarity when it comes to driving with Parkinson's. We’ll explore the ways Parkinson’s impacts driving ability, discuss red flags that families and loved ones should watch for, and offer advice on navigating these sensitive conversations while preserving trust and dignity. Whether you or someone you know is facing this transition, this episode provides wisdom, practical strategies, and reassurance that you are not alone on this journey. Timestamps: 00:00 Impact of Parkinson's on Driving 06:29 Driving challenges with Parkinson's 10:17 Executive function and driving decisions 13:46 Learning good habits in golf and driving 17:27 Driving challenges and safety concerns 21:00 Evaluating Parkinson's impact on driving 23:23 Driving assessments and safety tips 27:37 Discussing family involvement in patient care 32:17 Assistive driving aids for disabilities 35:03 Discussing driving with foot dystonia 37:54 Driving safety with neurological conditions 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.”

  5. Jul 9

    Maintaining Independence: Travel Tips for Parkinson’s Patients and Their Caregivers

    The conversation focused on the unique challenges and inspiring opportunities that come with traveling while living with Parkinson’s disease. A key theme that emerged was the importance of preparation, medication management, navigating airports, and understanding accessibility can transform daunting obstacles into manageable details. The discussion explored how travel remains not only possible, but deeply meaningful for those diagnosed with Parkinson’s, helping preserve independence and connection to the world. Several points were raised, including practical planning strategies, the role of technology, caregiver partnerships, and how to face unexpected health events while away from home. Ultimately, the episode offers reassurance and actionable advice, encouraging listeners to continue exploring new destinations and experiences, no matter the diagnosis. 00:00 Traveling with Parkinson's 04:07 Consulting doctor before traveling 09:18 Managing medication during travel 10:15 Managing Parkinson's meds while traveling 13:51 Early boarding and security tips 18:31 Traveling with mobility challenges 22:20 Communicating health symptoms to companions 23:09 Travel tips for patients with medical IDs 26:34 Travel tips for health concerns 29:56 Wearable tech and communication tools 34:59 Travel and celebration alternatives 37:05 Traveling with Parkinson's tips Airport Assistance TSA Cares – Assistance for travelers with disabilities and medical conditions. The transcript recommends contacting them at least 72 hours before your flight.https://www.tsa.gov/travel/passenger-supportTravel Agencies Mentioned Elite Cruises & Vacationshttps://elitecruises.comTravel For Allhttps://travelforall.comAccessible Journeys – Accessible tours for travelers with mobility and other accessibility needs.https://www.disabilitytravel.comMedication Reminder Apps MediSafehttps://www.medisafe.comMyTherapyhttps://www.mytherapyapp.comNavigation & Translation Apps Google Mapshttps://maps.google.comApple Mapshttps://www.apple.com/maps/Google Translatehttps://translate.google.comWearables Mentioned Garmin Wearableshttps://www.garmin.comOura Ringhttps://ouraring.comTravel Planning Resources AAA (American Automobile Association) – Travel planning, travel agents, insurance, and travel advice.https://www.aaa.comRick Steves Travel – European travel advice, guidebooks, and travel tips (including advice for travelers with health concerns).https://www.ricksteves.comThe 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.”

  6. May 13

    Swallowing Problems in Parkinson’s: Early Warning Signs, Risks, and Strategies for Safety

    Welcome to another episode of The Caring Neurologist. Today, Dr. Sandeep Thakkar explores a hidden but critical issue for people living with Parkinson's disease: swallowing problems, also known as dysphagia. While Parkinson's is often thought of in terms of tremors or stiffness, swallowing issues can have dangerous, even life-threatening consequences if missed or ignored. In this episode, you'll learn why these symptoms occur, how to spot early warning signs, and proactive steps patients and families can take to prevent complications. With practical advice and compassionate insight, this conversation sheds light on a topic that is essential for long-term health, safety, and quality of life. Prevention starts with awareness and that's exactly where our conversation begins. 00:00 Swallowing difficulties in Parkinson's 04:25 Signs of swallowing difficulties 07:16 Swallowing issues in Parkinson's 11:45 Timing meds with physical activity 15:09 Understanding aspiration pneumonia causes 18:40 Explaining modified barium swallow test 22:09 Proper eating posture tips 23:39 Dietary modifications for swallowing issues 26:05 Addressing swallowing issues during meals 29:13 Eating tips for swallowing issues 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.”

  7. Apr 27

    Understanding Hallucinations and Delusions in Parkinson’s Disease: Causes, Early Signs, and Caregiver Guidance

    Welcome to another episode of The Caring Neurologist. Today, Dr. Sandeep Thakkar opens up an often overlooked chapter in the Parkinson's journey: hallucinations and delusions. Many patients with Parkinson's disease, as well as their loved ones, notice changes that can be difficult or frightening, seeing things that aren't there, misinterpreting reality, or developing suspicious thoughts. These symptoms, while common, are rarely discussed openly and can lead to confusion, distress, and even disagreements at home. In this episode, Dr. Sandeep Thakkar explains why these experiences happen, what early warning signs to watch for, and how both neurological and non-neurological factors play a role. Listeners will learn how Parkinson’s medications, infections, and even sleep deprivation can contribute, and get practical advice on how caregivers can respond with calm, validation, and dignity. The conversation highlights available treatments and strategies for preserving both safety and self-respect, offering hope that Parkinson’s related hallucinations and delusions can be understood and managed with compassion. 00:00 Types of hallucinations explained 03:38 Understanding delusions in Parkinson's disease 06:37 Understanding Parkinson's neurotransmitter imbalance 12:08 Experiencing vivid dreams and hallucinations 14:02 Parkinson's drugs and hallucinations 17:43 Factors aggravating hallucinations and confusion 21:36 Redirecting patient attention strategies 25:15 Managing Parkinson's disease psychosis 27:06 Managing medication side effects 29:59 Preserving dignity with 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.”

  8. Mar 16

    Navigating Cognitive Fatigue in Parkinson's: Causes, Solutions, and Optimizing Daily Life

    Welcome to The Caring Neurologist, where clarity, compassion, and hope meet in the journey through Parkinson's care. In today’s episode, Dr. Sandeep Thakkar takes us deep into a topic that troubles many listeners: slowed cognitive processing, often described as brain fog or mental fatigue. Drawing from real clinic conversations, Dr. Thakkar breaks down the science behind bradyphrenia, the slowness of thought seen in Parkinson’s and explores why it’s often mistaken for memory loss or dementia. You’ll hear why mental exhaustion happens even when memory seems intact, what’s really going on in the brain with dopamine and other key chemicals, and how factors like sleep, medication timing, and stress play major roles. The episode offers practical advice for optimizing clarity from tailored medication management to lifestyle changes and shares crucial insights for both patients and caregivers. If you’ve ever wondered why your thinking feels slow, or how to best support mental stamina, this episode is packed with guidance, reassurance, and the tools you need to navigate brain fog with confidence. 00:00 Bradyphrenia: Slow Thinking Explained 04:37 Parkinson's: Dopamine, Brain Circuit Breakdown 07:26 Brain Fog and Neuroinflammation 11:48 Parkinson's vs. Alzheimer's: Cognitive Differences 14:18 Managing Parkinson's Medications Effectively 18:44 Brain Fog and Disease Progression 20:52 "Sleep: Brain's Cleaning and Reset" 25:45 Optimizing Dopamine: Timing & Tips 29:39 "Reduce Sugar, Eat Anti-inflammatory" 31:36 "Exercise: Brain Boost for Parkinson's" 35:28 "Benefits of Diverse Exercises" 38:21 Parkinson's: Communication and Care Strategies 42:18 Parkinson's Cognitive Concerns Guide 43:13 Early Signs of Cognitive Decline 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.”

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Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

“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.

Information

  • Creator
    TopHealth Media
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Caring Neurologist
  • Show Website
    The Caring Neurologist

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