Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder of the central nervous system that can have devastating effects upon both the patient and their family members. The main features of Parkinson’s disease are slowness of movements, difficulty maintaining balance, muscle rigidity, and tremor. The disease is thought to be caused by low levels of a chemical called dopamine, which activates cells in our brains that let us move. While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, there are a variety of treatments available that can help to improve symptoms. Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease There are primary and secondary symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Not everyone with the disease experiences all of the symptoms and the progression of the disease is different from person to person. Most people who get Parkinson’s are over 60, but recently there have been more identified cases in younger men and women. Most of the symptoms of the disease involve disruption of motor functions (muscle and movement). However, lack of energy, mood and memory changes, and pain can also occur as part of the disease. Primary symptoms of Parkinson’s disease Slow movement (Bradykinesia) ”“ slowness in voluntary movement such as standing up, walking, and sitting down. This happens because of delayed transmission signals from the brain to the muscles. This may lead to difficulty initiating walking, but in more severe cases can cause “freezing episodes” once walking has begun. Tremors ”“ often occur in the hands, fingers, forearms, foot, mouth, or chin. Typically, tremors take place when the limbs are at rest as opposed to when there is movement. Rigidity ”“ otherwise known as stiff muscles, often produces muscle pain that is increased during movement. Poor balance ”“happens because of the loss of reflexes that help posture. This causes unsteady balance, which can often lead to falls. For Full Article and Treatment: MedicoPK | Overview Of Parkinson's disease
