Parkinsons Disease
Introduction
Source: NHS
In this topic (8)
Parkinson's disease is a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged overmany years.
The three main symptoms of Parkinson's disease are:
- involuntary shaking of particular parts of the body (tremor)
- slow movement
- stiff and inflexible muscles
A person with Parkinson's disease can also experience a wide range of other physical and psychological symptoms, including:
- depression and anxiety
- balance problemsthismay increase the chance of a fall
- loss of sense of smell (anosmis)
- problems sleeping (insomnia)
- memory problems
Thisleads to a reductionin a chemical called dopamine in the brain.
Dopamine plays a vital role in regulating the movement of the body. A reduction in dopamine is responsible for many of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
Exactly what causes the loss of nerve cells is unclear. Most experts think that a combination of genetic and environmental factors is responsible.
However, you may need regular appointments with your specialist so your condition can be monitored.
Parkinson's diseasedoesn't directly cause people to die, but the condition can place great strain on the body, and can make some people more vulnerable to serious and life-threatening infections.
However, with advances in treatment, most people with Parkinson's disease now have a normal or near-normal life expectancy.
It includes information and advice on:
Articles for Parkinsons Disease
Causes
Parkinson's disease is caused by a loss of nerve cells in the part of the brain called the substantia nigra.
Diagnosis
No tests can conclusively show that you have Parkinson's disease. Your doctor will base a diagnosis on your symptoms, medical history and the results of some simple exercises.
Introduction
Read about Parkinson's disease, a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over many years.
Living with
A diagnosis of Parkinson's disease is life changing. You will need long-term treatment to control your symptoms.
Patient story: "For me, everything just takes a bit longer."
Ernie May was diagnosed with Parkinson's when he was 65. He tells us his story.
Patient story: "I've learned to live with Parkinson's."
Parkinson's disease is usually considered to be an older person's illness, but Karen Rose was diagnosed with it when she was just 34.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Parkinson's disease usually develop gradually and are mild at first.
Treatment
There's currently no cure for Parkinson's disease, but treatments are available to help relieve the symptoms and maintain your quality of life.
