Parkinson's Disease
Description
Parkinson's disease is a brain condition that can affect movement and daily activities, such as walking, speaking, and dressing. It happens when certain nerve cells in the brain that produce the chemical dopamine die or don’t work well, which can slow movements and cause tremors. Common signs include tremors (often starting in one hand), stiffness, slowness of movement, and balance or walking difficulties. The course of the condition is different for everyone, and it usually develops slowly over time. If you notice symptoms or have questions, talk with a qualified healthcare professional for an evaluation and guidance.
Common Symptoms
- Tremor, usually at rest, often starting in one hand or fingers
- Slowness of movement (bradykinesia)
- Stiff or rigid muscles
- Impaired balance and a shuffling, uneven gait
- Changes in speech and writing (soft voice, slurred speech, smaller handwriting)
- Reduced facial expressions and diminished automatic movements
- Non-motor symptoms such as constipation, loss of smell, or sleep disturbances
- Mood changes (depression or anxiety) or fatigue; if you notice these symptoms, consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance
Causes
- Parkinson’s risk increases with age, especially after around 60 years old.
- Genetic factors can play a role; certain gene mutations are linked to rare familial forms.
- A family history of Parkinson’s modestly raises risk.
- Environmental exposures, such as pesticides or solvents, and rural living have been linked to higher risk.
- Being male and having a history of head injury have been associated with increased risk in some studies.
- If you have concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Treatment Options
Parkinson's disease is commonly managed with a combination of lifestyle approaches, medications, and sometimes procedures, tailored to the individual.
Lifestyle measures include regular exercise for balance and strength, physical and occupational therapy, good sleep, and strategies to reduce falls.
Medications often involve dopaminergic therapies such as levodopa, along with dopamine agonists and enzyme inhibitors that help manage symptoms.
Additional medications may target specific symptoms and side effects, such as MAO-B inhibitors or COMT inhibitors.
For some people, surgical procedures such as deep brain stimulation are considered when symptoms significantly affect daily life.
Always discuss with a qualified healthcare professional to develop an individualized plan and monitor safety and effectiveness.