Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the central nervous system.

The disease is named after James Parkinson, the doctor who first described the condition in his 1817 publication called “An Essay on the Shaking Palsy.”.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder, and its symptoms worsen with time. Symptoms of the disease include tremors, stiffness, slow movement and problems with balance.

These symptoms occur due to the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain.

The symptoms may only be mild initially, and may go unnoticed until they begin to interfere with daily living. Initial symptoms of the disease may include:.

Tremors in one limb or one side of the body that usually occur when the body is at rest.
Stiffness or rigidity of the muscles that may make movement difficult.
Slowed movement that makes it difficult to carry out daily tasks.

As the disease progresses, the symptoms may become more severe and include:.

Tremors in both legs and arms.
Difficulty in standing up from a sitting position.
Problems with balance and coordination.
Difficulty in speaking and swallowing.
Depression and anxiety.
Cognitive problems such as dementia.

Causes of Parkinson’s Disease

The cause of Parkinson’s disease is not fully understood. However, research suggests that the disease is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Several risk factors have been associated with the development of Parkinson’s disease, including:.

Age- The risk of developing Parkinson’s disease increases as a person ages. Most people with the disease are over the age of 60.
Gender- Parkinson’s disease affects more men than women.
Heredity- A small percentage of Parkinson’s disease cases are inherited.
Environmental factors – Exposure to some toxins, such as pesticides, has been linked to an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.

Diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease

Diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease is often based on a neurological exam, and assessing the patient’s symptoms. There is no specific test to diagnose Parkinson’s disease. However, the doctor may order tests such as:.

MRI or CT scan- These tests can rule out other conditions that have similar symptoms as Parkinson’s disease.
DaTscan- This is a special type of imaging test that can help confirm the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease.

Treatments for Parkinson’s Disease

There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease. However, treatments are available to manage the symptoms of the disease. Treatment options for Parkinson’s disease include:.

Medications- Medications such as levodopa, dopamine agonists, and anti-cholinergic drugs can help to manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Surgery- Deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery involves a thin wire being implanted into the brain which is connected to a small device that emits electrical impulses. This surgical procedure may help reduce symptoms of Parkinson’s disease in some people.
Physical Therapy- Physical therapy can help improve mobility and help to manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Living with Parkinson’s Disease

Living with Parkinson’s disease can be challenging. However, there are several things that people with Parkinson’s disease can do to improve their quality of life:.

Exercise regularly- Regular exercise can help to improve mobility, reduce stiffness and improve overall health.
Eat a healthy diet- Eating a balanced diet can help to maintain a healthy weight and improve overall health.
Stay socially active- Staying socially active can help to reduce depression and anxiety associated with Parkinson’s disease.
Join a support group- Joining a support group can help people with Parkinson’s disease to connect with others who are going through similar experiences, and provide helpful advice and tips.

Conclusion

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects a person’s ability to move. While there is no cure for the disease, treatment options are available to manage the symptoms.

People with Parkinson’s disease can take steps to improve their quality of life by staying active, eating a healthy diet, and connecting with others through support groups.