Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive neurological disorder that occurs due to loss of neurons in areas of the brain that help us move. These neurons normally produce the neurotransmitter, dopamine, which is responsible for allowing smooth, coordinated function of the body’s movement. The condition was first described in 1817 by James Parkinson, a British physician.
Symptoms
The symptoms of PD include shaking or tremor, stiffness (rigidity), slow movement (bradykinesia), and trouble with balance (postural instability). Other symptoms of PD include: small, cramped handwriting (micrographia), reduced arm swing, foot or leg drag from slowness or stiffness, “freezing” or stuck in place, walking with a series of small steps (festination), low volume voice (hypophonia) or muffled speech (dysarthria), loss of facial expression called hypomimia. Some of the non-movement related symptoms of PD include: anxiety, depression, constipation, sleep disturbances, and difficulty swallowing. It is important to note that an individual may not develop all the symptoms mentioned above.
Cause
PD affects an estimated one and a half million people or 1 in 100 Americans over the age of 60. It is less common at younger ages. Men are slightly more affected than women. PD is a disease that has a genetic component with over 12 genes identified and currently involved in ongoing research. Genetic links have been isolated in a few families with extensive PD incidence and associated with younger onset disease. Environmental factors are also thought to play a part in the development of PD.
Treatment
Although there is no cure for PD, medications, rehabilitation, exercise and sometimes surgery can help manage the symptoms. A wellness program that includes exercise, good nutrition, sleep, and mental and spiritual health are some of the ways for PD individuals to stay well and achieve a good quality of life.
If you have Parkinson’s disease, consult with a movement disorder specialist.
For More Information
National Parkinson Foundation (NPF)
Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation (NWPF)
American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA)
Parkinson Disease Foundation (PDF)
PDtrials.org
Parkinson’s Action Network (PAN)
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