Ohio
Parkinson Foundation Northeast Region
About Parkinson Disease
James Parkinson, a London physician, first described the syndrome in 1817. A red tulip named after Dr Parkinson has come to be widely recognized as a symbol of hope throughout the world Parkinson Community.
An estimated 1.5 million Americans and 6.3 million people worldwide have Parkinson disease. And, although the disease is most common in those over the age of 60, it is by no means always a disorder of old age. As many as 1 in 20 people diagnosed with Parkinson's experience the onset of PD at the age of 40 or younger (referred to as Young Onset Parkinson Disease). Both men and women develop Parkinson’s, although some research indicates that men may be twice as likely to develop this disease.
What is Parkinson Disease?
Parkinson Disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive, brain disorder in which there is a decrease in the production of dopamine, a brain neurotransmitter needed to properly control body movements. Parkinson's occurs when specific nerve cells (neurons) in a part of the brain, called the substantia nigra, die or become injured. Since loss of those specific nerve cells which produce dopamine result in lack of coordinated movement of the muscles in the body, Parkinson Disease is often referred to as a movement disorder.
What are the Symptoms of Parkinson Disease?
Symptoms of Parkinson Disease are due to the decrease in the amount of dopamine being produced in the brain. Usually these symptoms do not appear until about 80% of the dopamine-producing cells have been damaged. The symptoms of Parkinson Disease are different for each individual and each individual may not have every symptom. The earliest symptoms are often non-specific and may include weakness, tiredness, and fatigue. Symptoms can sometimes be initially confused with other movement disorders such as essential tremor. If Parkinson's is suspected, a neurologist who specializes in movement disorders should be consulted.
The four main symptoms of Parkinson’s are:
- Tremor (shaking), especially of the resting hand
- Slowness of movement also called bradykinesia
- Stiffness (rigidity)
- Difficulty with balance or postural instability which may lead to falling
Other symptoms may include:
- A change in facial expression which is due to the loss of
ability to move facial muscles. This
often gives others a misinterpretation of feelings and emotions (often
thought to be unfair by those who have PD!)
- Changes in speech where the voice can become softer or muffled
- A shuffling walk or gait. Changes in walking may also include
a decreased arm swing
- Small hand writing which may be difficult to read
- Changes in posture (stooping forward)
- Difficulty turning
- Restless legs
- Excess saliva and drooling
How is Parkinson Disease Diagnosed?
At the present time the cause of Parkinson Disease is unknown and there is no single x-ray or blood test to confirm the diagnosis. It is through a thorough examination that a physician can arrive at this diagnosis. This may include blood work and special scans that rule out other conditions as Parkinson Disease can be confused with other neurological conditions. If Parkinson Disease is suspected it is recommended you consider seeking the care of a neurologist who specializes in movement disorders.
How is Parkinson Disease Treated?
There are many effective medications that help to reduce the symptoms of Parkinson Disease. The medications used are designed to either replace dopamine or mimic dopamine in the brain. This helps to reduce the symptoms of tremor, rigidity, and slow movement. It is especially important that you keep a current list of your medications and are knowledgeable about side effects and medication interactions. Talk to your physician or pharmacist for more specific information.
Brain surgery can also help to reduce the symptoms of Parkinson disease, and improve the quality of life, but like medications, it is not a cure for Parkinson Disease. Questions about brain surgery for PD should be discussed with your neurologist.
Tips For Dealing With Parkinson Disease
In addition to the medical treatment of Parkinson disease here are some ideas that you may find helpful. more
The Future and Parkinson Disease
Currently there is no cure for Parkinson Disease. The only completely
conclusive diagnosis is made by microscopic examination of the brain
at autopsy. You can help by considering a brain donation. The more
information we have about the brain of those with Parkinson disease
(and many other neurological conditions) the better we will be able
to find those answers that can lead to a cure.
Information about The Brain Endowment BankTM can be found on the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine website.
Although there is no cure for Parkinson Disease research is being
conducted worldwide to determine both genetic and environmental causes,
methods for early diagnosis, new medications to help manage the symptoms,
and ultimately, to find a cure.