Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease is a brain disorder. It occurs when certain nerve cells (neurons) in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra die or become impaired. Normally, these cells produce a vital chemical known as dopamine. Dopamine allows smooth, coordinated function of the body's muscles and movement. When approximately 80% of the dopamine-producing cells are damaged, the symptoms of Parkinson disease appear. The course of the disease varies widely. Some people have mild symptoms for many years, while others have severe symptoms and a quicker progression.
The key signs of the disease are:
- Shaking
- Slowness of movement
- Rigidity
- Difficulty with balance
- Small, cramped handwriting
- Stiff facial expression
- Shuffling walk
- Muffled speech
- Depression
Parkinson disease affects both men and women in almost equal numbers. While the condition usually develops after the age of 65, 15% of those diagnosed are under 50.
Blood tests and brain scans known as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be performed to rule out other conditions that have similar symptoms. People suspected of having Parkinson disease should consider seeking the care of a neurologist who specializes in Parkinson disease.
There are a number of effective medicines that help to ease the symptoms of Parkinson disease. Most symptoms are caused by lack of dopamine. The medicines most commonly used will attempt to either replace or mimic dopamine, which improves the tremor, rigidity and slowness associated with Parkinson disease. Several new medicines are being studied that may slow the progression.