Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and progressive neurodegenerative disorder that
affects movement and other functions. It occurs when dopamine-producing neurons in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra become damaged or
die.
Primary Motor Symptoms:
These affect physical
movement and are often the most recognizable.
1.
Tremor
o Involuntary shaking, often starting in
the hands or fingers, especially when at rest.
2.
Bradykinesia (Slowness of Movement)
o Noticeable reduction in automatic
movements (e.g., blinking, swinging arms when walking).
3.
Rigidity
o Muscle stiffness that limits movement
and can cause pain.
4.
Postural Instability
o Impaired balance and coordination;
increased risk of falling.
Non-Motor (Early/Prodromal) Symptoms:
These can appear years before the motor symptoms and
are sometimes overlooked.
1.
Loss of Smell (Anosmia)
2.
Sleep Disorders (e.g., REM sleep behavior disorder)
3.
Depression or Anxiety
4.
Constipation
5.
Fatigue
6.
Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
7.
Mood and Cognitive Changes
o Difficulty concentrating, memory
problems
Causes and Risk
Factors:
- Unknown
exact cause,
but likely a combination of:
- Genetics (in 10–15% of cases)
- Environmental
exposures
(e.g., pesticides, heavy metals)
- Age (most common in people over 60)
- Male
sex
(men are more likely to develop it)
Diagnosis:
- No single test;
based on:
- Medical
history
- Neurological
examination
- Response
to Parkinson’s medication
Treatment Options:
- Medications (e.g., Levodopa, dopamine
agonists)
- Physical
and Occupational Therapy
- Deep
Brain Stimulation (DBS)
for advanced cases
- Lifestyle
modifications:
Exercise, diet, and mental stimulation
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