What is Parkinson’s? Parkinson’s is a disease that occurs when the brain cells that make dopamine stop working or die. Dopamine is a chemical that coordinates our body’s movement, thus categorizing Parkinson’s as a "movement disorder." Parkinson’s can cause tremors, slowness, stiffness, and walking and balance issues. Often, symptoms will occur on one side of the body but eventually affect both sides. Over time, in some cases, people with the disease could also experience depression, sleep problems, or trouble chewing, swallowing, or speaking.
Parkinson’s is a lifelong disease and slowly worsens over time. It is believed to primarily be caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Aging also can play a big part in the risk for Parkinson’s as the average age of people with the disease are 60. Men are more prone than women, and the white race seems to be more prone than other races.
Parkinson’s is a very complex disease as every person’s experience is different. The symptoms vary from person to person and can not be predetermined. Even though there are similarities observed amongst patients, the symptoms you may get, how you get them, and how severe they will become can not be determined in advance. As a whole, Parkinson’s can be tough to diagnose as there is not any blood test or scan that can diagnose it; it can only be determined through reviewing one’s medical history and a physical examination.
There is no cure for Parkinson's; however, once diagnosed, symptoms can be lessened with medications making it possible for people to live fulfilling and productive lives. If you fear you or a loved one may be showing signs of Parkinson’s, make an appointment with your doctor immediately to discuss your concerns.
Parkinson’s is a lifelong disease and slowly worsens over time. It is believed to primarily be caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Aging also can play a big part in the risk for Parkinson’s as the average age of people with the disease are 60. Men are more prone than women, and the white race seems to be more prone than other races.
Parkinson’s is a very complex disease as every person’s experience is different. The symptoms vary from person to person and can not be predetermined. Even though there are similarities observed amongst patients, the symptoms you may get, how you get them, and how severe they will become can not be determined in advance. As a whole, Parkinson’s can be tough to diagnose as there is not any blood test or scan that can diagnose it; it can only be determined through reviewing one’s medical history and a physical examination.
There is no cure for Parkinson's; however, once diagnosed, symptoms can be lessened with medications making it possible for people to live fulfilling and productive lives. If you fear you or a loved one may be showing signs of Parkinson’s, make an appointment with your doctor immediately to discuss your concerns.