Movement Disorders

  • Home/
  • Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement control. It occurs when nerve cells (neurons) in the brain that produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter essential for coordinating muscle movements, become damaged or die. As dopamine levels decrease, it becomes more difficult to control muscles and movements.

Causes

The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In some cases, genetic mutations are linked to Parkinson’s, particularly in early-onset cases. Environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins, may also play a role. Aging is a significant risk factor, as the disease is more common in older adults.

Symptoms:

Parkinson’s disease symptoms typically develop gradually and can vary from person to person. Early signs may include tremors (shaking), especially in the hands, stiffness, and slowness of movement. Other symptoms include:

  • Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
  • Postural instability (balance problems)
  • Rigidity (muscle stiffness)
  • Resting tremor
  • Speech changes and writing difficulties
  • Sleep disturbances, depression, and memory problems may also occur as the disease progresses.

Treatment:

There is no cure for Parkinson's disease, but treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options include:

  • Medications: The mainstay is levodopa (often combined with carbidopa), which increases dopamine levels in the brain. Other medications like dopamine agonists, MAO-B inhibitors, and anticholinergics are used to manage symptoms.
  • Surgical interventions: In some cases, deep brain stimulation (DBS) is recommended. This involves implanting a device that sends electrical impulses to targeted areas in the brain to reduce symptoms.
  • Physical therapy and speech therapy can help manage movement difficulties and improve communication.