Understanding the disease that affects 10 million people worldwide, along with its symptoms, causes and treatments.
A neurodegenerative disorder that affects predominately the dopamine-producing (“dopaminergic”) neurons in a specific area of the brain called substantia nigra.
Dr. Jun Yu, Movement Disorders Fellow at the University of Florida
Symtoms
Symptoms typically manifest gradually over several years, and their progression varies among individuals due to the disease’s heterogeneity. People with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) may encounter:
- Resting tremor, often described as a pill-rolling tremor in the hands; other tremor types are possible.
- Sluggishness and reduced movement (referred to as bradykinesia and hypokinesia).
- Stiffness in limbs (rigidity).
- Challenges with balance and walking (postural instability).
Beyond movement-related symptoms, Parkinson’s can also manifest non-motor symptoms, which can have a substantial impact on individuals. These include depression, anxiety, apathy, hallucinations, constipation, orthostatic hypotension, sleep disturbances, diminished sense of smell, and various cognitive impairments.
Cause
The exact cause remains predominantly elusive. Researchers posit that a blend of genetic and environmental factors contributes to the origin.
Treatment
Although no cure exists, treatment options are diverse and encompass medications, lifestyle adjustments, and surgical interventions. While Parkinson’s itself isn’t life-threatening, its complications can be severe, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) ranking PD-related complications as the 14th leading cause of death in the U.S.
The initial step toward a fulfilling life with Parkinson’s disease is gaining a comprehensive understanding of the condition and its progression.
It’s entirely possible to enjoy a good to excellent quality of life with PD. Collaborating closely with your healthcare provider and adhering to recommended therapies, particularly the use of dopaminergic medications, is paramount in effectively managing symptoms. These medications are essential because individuals with PD typically have reduced dopamine levels in the brain, often resulting from the impairment of neurons in the substantia nigra.
It’s crucial to recognize that motor symptoms of PD typically manifest later in the disease’s course, occurring after the loss or impairment of 60% to 80% of substantia nigra neurons. Lewy bodies, characterized by the accumulation of abnormal alpha-synuclein, are frequently observed in substantia nigra neurons of individuals with PD.
Advancement in Research
Efforts made by ‘The Parkinson’s Foundation’ have ushered in significant advancements in treatment and enhanced care, instilling hope within the Parkinson’s community. The realm of Parkinson’s research continues to evolve continuously, expanding our understanding of this condition.
Researchers are actively investigating methods to pinpoint biomarkers for PD, which could facilitate earlier diagnosis and enable more personalized treatments aimed at slowing the disease’s progression. Presently, all PD therapies aim to alleviate symptoms but do not have the capacity to halt or decelerate the disease’s course.