Parkinson’s disease is a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over many years.
It is caused by the breakdown or death of nerve cells (neurons) in a specific part of the brain called the Substantia Nigra. These cells, when healthy, produce an essential hormone called dopamine, so when enough of these cells are gone, there is no longer enough dopamine being produced.
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. Despite a great deal of research, scientists still don’t know exactly what causes the death of these nerve cells, but many experts think that a combination of genetic and environmental factors is responsible.
Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
A person suffering from Parkinson’s Disease may suffer a wide variety of physical and psychological symptoms. These include:
  • involuntary shaking of particular parts of the body (tremor)
  • slow movement
  • stiff and inflexible muscles
  • depression and anxiety
  • balance problems (this may increase the chances of a fall)
  • loss of sense of smell (anosmia)
  • problems sleeping (insomnia)
  • memory problems
  • slurred speech
  • loss of automatic movements (e.g. blinking)
Who’s Affected
Parkinson’s Disease is more prevalent in Men then it is Women. Most sufferers tend to develop symptoms when they’re over 50, although some may experience the symptoms first, when they are under 40.
Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease
There is no direct cure for Parkinson’s Disease, although there are a number of different treatments which can help ease the symptoms and maintain quality of life for as long as possible.
Medications and supportive treatments such as physiotherapy have been shown to help ease symptoms in some severe cases.
As the condition progresses, care is likely to be required and will likely need to steadily be increased as symptoms worsen before full-time care is considered.
Summary
As the condition worsens, it becomes increasingly difficult to carry out everyday activities. Many people do respond well to treatment and may only experience mild to moderate disability. Others may become more severely disabled.
The condition itself will not directly cause someone to die but it can cause immense strain to the body, making some people more vulnerable to serious infections.