Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and coordination. It is caused by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include:

• Tremors or shaking, usually beginning in one hand
• Stiffness or rigidity in the limbs and trunk
• Slowed movement (bradykinesia)
• Impaired balance and coordination
• Difficulty with fine motor skills such as writing or buttoning clothes
• Changes in speech and swallowing

Symptoms typically develop gradually over time, and may initially be mild and easily overlooked.

Causes

The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain leads to the characteristic symptoms of the disease.

Treatment

The treatment of Parkinson’s disease is focused on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This may include:

• Medications such as levodopa, dopamine agonists, and MAO-B inhibitors
• Physical therapy and exercise to improve mobility, balance, and strength
• Occupational therapy to assist with daily activities
• Speech therapy to address communication and swallowing difficulties
• Deep brain stimulation surgery for some patients

In addition to these treatments, lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress reduction may also be helpful.