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What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive, neurological disorder. It causes unintended or uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. Typically symptoms begin gradually, but become more severe over time. As nerve cells die, involuntary movements, tremors and shaking commonly appear. Many of the symptoms of Parkinson’s can be directly linked to the loss of neurons that produce dopamine. According to The Mayo Clinic, “when dopamine levels decrease, it causes irregular brain activity, leading to problems with movement and other symptoms of Parkinson's disease.”
There is no known cure for Parkinson’s disease, but many medications help to mitigate symptoms. Much like the cure, the causes of Parkinson’s disease are not well known.
Causes for Parkinson’s
Researchers have theorized that there are several factors that play a role in both Parkinson’s Disease as well as "Parkinsonism,” the umbrella term for symptoms related to the disorder. These factors include:
- Genes. There are a number of genetic factors that researchers have found to indicate an increased risk for developing the disease. However, how these make some people more susceptible to the condition is unclear. According to the National Health Service, “Parkinson's disease can run in families as a result of faulty genes being passed to a child by their parents. But it's rare for the disease to be inherited this way.”
- Environmental triggers. Exposure to certain toxins or environmental factors may increase the risk of later Parkinson's disease.
- Medications. Taking certain medications, such as some types of antipsychotic medication, can cause Parkinson's symptoms. This usually improves once the medication is stopped.
- Other progressive brain conditions. Some other brain conditions can cause Parkinson’s symptoms such as progressive supranuclear palsy, multiple system atrophy and corticobasal degeneration.
- Cerebrovascular disease. This is “where a series of small strokes cause several parts of the brain to die.”
Other Research
Researchers also have noted changes that can occur in the brains of people with Parkinson's disease. These include the presence of Lewy bodies. According to the National Institute on Aging, Lewy bodies are “abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein in the brain. These deposits, also called Lewy bodies, affect chemicals in the brain whose changes, in turn, can lead to problems with thinking, movement, behavior, and mood.” The presence of these protein clumps are linked to individuals with Parkinson’s.
Although there is no known cure for Parkinson’s disease yet, there are many medications and therapies that can help you to live a long and fulfilling life with this progressive neurological disorder. If you notice changes in your muscles, strength, or coordination, seek help immediately. And if you’re looking for extra support, join us in our neurological and brain or Parkinson’s disease communities.
