Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects movement. PD occurs when small clusters of neurons in the brain die. The gradual loss of these neurons results in reduction of a critical neurotransmitter dopamine - a chemical responsible for transmitting messages to parts of the brain that coordinate muscle movement. Symptoms of PD appear when at least half of the dopamine neurons in the brain have died.

PD develops gradually, sometimes starting with a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand, which is the most well-known sign of PD. The disorder also commonly causes stiffness or slowing of movement.

In the early stages of PD, the face may show little or no expression or the arms may not swing when you walk. Speech may become soft or slurred. PD symptoms worsen as the condition progresses over time.

PD cannot be cured, but medications may improve the symptoms. Rarely, surgery to regulate certain regions of the brain may help improve symptoms.

The exact cause of PD is unknown, though most researchers agree that the disease is caused by both genetic and environmental factors, as well as the interactions between the two. Mutations in certain genes seem to increase the risk of PD, but these alterations are rare. Exposure to certain toxins or foods also increases the risk of PD, but the risk is still relatively small. Head injuries may also contribute to the development of PD.

See a doctor for a resting tremor, stiffness, slowed movement, or balance problems. Early diagnosis helps you start treatments that improve symptoms and daily function.