What is Parkinson disease? See surprising facts about the disease, treatment and prevention.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects the nervous system and the way you move.

Over time, PD damages and kills nerve cells in the brain. These nerve cells produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps control and coordinate your movements. 

As dopamine levels decrease, people with PD experience a variety of motor and non-motor symptoms.

Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease

The most common motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease include:

Tremor: A tremor is a rhythmic shaking that usually begins in the hands and fingers. It may also affect the head, legs, or jaw. Tremors are often most noticeable at rest and decrease when you move.

Rigidity: Rigidity is a stiffness or muscle tension that makes it difficult to move your arms, legs, and trunk.

Bradykinesia: Bradykinesia is slowness of movement. This can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, such as getting dressed, getting out of bed, and walking.

Postural instability: Postural instability is a loss of balance and coordination. This can make it difficult to stand and walk without falling.

In addition to motor symptoms, people with Parkinson's disease may also experience a variety of non-motor symptoms, such as:

Fatigue: Fatigue is one of the most common non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Sleep disturbances:Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia and restless leg syndrome, are also common in people with Parkinson's disease.

Cognitive impairment: Cognitive impairment, such as memory loss and difficulty concentrating, can also occur in people with Parkinson's disease.

Depression and anxiety: Depression and anxiety are also common in people with Parkinson's disease.

Autonomic dysfunction: Autonomic dysfunction is a problem with the involuntary nervous system, which controls functions such as blood pressure, heart rate, and digestion.

Autonomic dysfunction can cause a variety of symptoms in people with Parkinson's disease, such as constipation, urinary incontinence, and sexual dysfunction.

Causes of Parkinson's Disease

The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is unknown. However, it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Genetics: Certain genes have been linked to Parkinson's disease. However, most people with Parkinson's disease do not have a family history of the disease.

Environment: Exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as pesticides and herbicides, may increase the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. However, more research is needed to confirm this link.

Diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease

There is no single test to diagnose Parkinson's disease. Doctors typically diagnose the disease based on a person's medical history, physical examination, and neurological evaluation.

Treatment of Parkinson's Disease

There is no cure for Parkinson's disease. However, there are a variety of treatments that can help manage the symptoms of the disease.

Medications: Medications are the main treatment for Parkinson's disease. There are a variety of medications available that can help improve motor symptoms, such as tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia. 

Non-motor symptoms, such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive impairment, can also be treated with medications.

Surgery: Surgery may be considered for people with Parkinson's disease who do not respond well to medications or who have severe motor symptoms.

 

The most common type of surgery for Parkinson's disease is deep brain stimulation (DBS). DBS involves implanting electrodes in the brain that deliver electrical impulses to help control movement.

Therapy: Therapy can also help people with Parkinson's disease manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Physical therapy can help improve balance, coordination, and strength.

 Occupational therapy can help people learn to adapt to their symptoms and continue to perform everyday activities. Speech therapy can help people with speech problems.

Prevention of Parkinson's Disease

There is no known way to prevent Parkinson's disease. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of developing the disease, such as:

Exercising regularly: Exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

Eating a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may also reduce the risk of developing Parkinson's disease.

Avoiding smoking: Smoking has been shown to increase the risk of developing Parkinson's disease.

Living with Parkinson's Disease

Living with Parkinson's disease can be challenging, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you manage your symptoms and live a full and fulfilled life.