Parkinson’s disease is a disorder of the nervous system. Impairment or death of nerve cells in the brain leads to the development of the condition. The loss of these neurons causes a decrease of essential neurotransmitters. This, in turn, leads to abnormal brain activity that affects one’s control of muscle movement.

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National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Mayo Clinic

National Institute on Aging

Cleveland Clinic

Parkinson's Disease Society

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Parkinson’s disease is caused by damage to cells in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra. These cells (called neurons) are essential for control of movements of the body. They do this by producing a chemical called dopamine that acts as a messenger to other parts of the brain. When these neurons are damaged or die, less dopamine is made. Eventually, as enough cells are lost, the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease appear.

As a neurodegenerative condition that affects the motor system, most of the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are abnormal movements of the body. The classic motor symptoms are tremors, muscle rigidity, and slowness of movement. Other motor symptoms include an inability to maintain posture and balance, and changes in speech and facial expression.

There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease. Treatment is individualized for each patient in order to alleviate symptoms; it may include medication, surgery, and lifestyle modifications—particularly exercise.

Conditions

"Condition" is a general term for particular abnormal diseases that negatively affect a part or all of the body. Conditions are not due to any external injury. Therefore, a broken bone does not classify as a condition, whereas Herpes, OCD, Shingles, and Ulcers do.

Medical conditions are classified by specific symptoms and signs. While each person's experiences can vary, there are consistent signs and symptoms that doctors will look for when diagnosing their patients. We always recommend that people seek a professional diagnosis. Afterward, supplement medical advice and opinion with accurate and easy to read information.

Most people only spend an average of a couple minutes with their doctor during a checkup. Oftentimes patients don't receive the fullest explanation of their diagnosis. Easily search through the vast amount of articles that Facty Health offers for ones that address your specific needs. From there, allow us to help you with those unanswered questions.

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