Parkinson’s Disease

A loss of dopamine characterizes a disorder of the Central Nervous System, Parkinson's disease- the chemical transmitter used to communicate to the muscles and allow for smooth mobility. Parkinson's is a slowly progressing disease. The cause of Parkinson's has not been established. Symptoms include trembling, shaking, being off balance, slow and stiff movements, and a lack of coordination. These are uncontrollable. Parkinson's is a degenerative disease, and, in the late stages, speech function, mental functioning( dementia), and body functions can all be affected.

Treatment ranges from medication, deep brain stimulation, physical therapy, to occupational therapy. Parkinson's diagnosis includes eliminating other causes of symptoms, such as a stroke, and includes verbal questions, an MRI, blood tests, physical tests of the nervous system reflexes, a neurological exam, and questions about mood. In some cases, medication can be prescribed that eliminate the symptoms. Parkinson's can be successfully managed. Drug treatment may not even be necessary if the symptoms are mild.