Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease Information

Parkinson's disease may occur when there is a problem with nerve cells in the brain. The disease may affect a person's movements. Nerve cells make a chemical called dopamine, which sends signals to the part of the brain controlling movement.

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This may allow the muscles to move smoothly and do what the person wants them to do. When nerve cells break down, dopamine may not be produced in sufficient quantities and the patient may have problems moving.

Parkinson's disease may worsen over time however, this often happens slowly. The exact cause of Parkinson's disease may not be clear.

Abnormal genes may be one possible cause of the disease, although not enough evidence has been collected to show that it is based on genetics. Other possible causes may involve aging and certain toxins present in the environment, but not enough evidence may be available to support this.

The main symptoms of Parkinson's disease may include trembling or shaking, muscle stiffness, slow movement and balance or walking problems. Not everyone experiencing these conditions may have Parkinson's disease, and not everybody with Parkinson's disease may have these symptoms.

The most common symptom may be tremor (trembling or shaking), as it may be the first sign that the patient notices. The disease may affect muscles throughout the body, so a person may have problems with swallowing or may experience constipation. Other symptoms in the latter stages of the disease may include dementia, trouble speaking and having a blank expression.

Currently, the cure for Parkinson's disease is unknown. Managing and controlling symptoms may be possible through certain treatments. Some patients may not require treatment if symptoms are mild.

A doctor may not want to begin medications until symptoms begin to interfere with the patient's daily life. Brain stimulation may be used in treating the disease as well. In this treatment, a doctor may place wires in the brain that may stimulate the area of the brain that controls movement, which may allow this part of the brain to work better. Eating healthy, getting exercise and getting an adequate amount of rest may help to improve symptoms as well.

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