Parkinsons disease

Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a long-term degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that mainly affects the motor system. The symptoms usually emerge slowly and, as the disease worsens, non-motor symptoms become more common. The most noticeable signs are tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement (bradykinesia), and difficulty with walking. Cognitive and behavioral problems may also occur with depression, anxiety, and apathy occurring in many people with PD. In the later stages, dementia becomes common.

Causes and Risk Factors

The cause of Parkinson's Disease is unknown, but several factors appear to play a role, including genetics and environmental triggers. Exposure to certain toxins or environmental factors increases the risk of developing PD, as does age. Men are more frequently affected than women. A small proportion of cases can be attributed to known genetic factors passed down through families.

Pathophysiology

Parkinson's Disease involves the malfunction and death of vital nerve cells in the brain, called neurons. Parkinson's primarily affects neurons in an area of the brain called the substantia nigra. Some of these dying neurons produce dopamine, a chemical that sends messages to the part of the brain that controls movement and coordination. As PD progresses, the amount of dopamine produced in the brain decreases, leaving a person unable to control movement normally.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Parkinson's Disease can be divided into motor and non-motor symptoms. The primary motor symptoms include tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability. Non-motor symptoms may include sensory abnormalities, sleep disturbances, cognitive changes, and autonomic dysfunction.

Diagnosis

There is no test for Parkinson's Disease, so the diagnosis is based on medical history and a neurological examination. The disease can be difficult to diagnose accurately. Doctors may order tests to rule out other conditions that could be causing symptoms.

Treatment

There is no cure for Parkinson's Disease, but treatment options vary and include medications and surgery. Therapy can manage symptoms, typically through increasing dopamine levels. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has emerged as a surgical treatment option for individuals whose symptoms cannot be adequately controlled with medication.

Prognosis

The progression of symptoms in Parkinson's Disease varies from person to person. Many people with PD live long productive lives, whereas others become disabled much more quickly. Complications such as choking, pneumonia, and falls can lead to premature death.

Epidemiology

Parkinson's Disease affects approximately 1% of individuals aged 60 and over, making it the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer's disease. The rate of the disease increases with age, affecting both men and women.

History

The disease is named after the English doctor James Parkinson, who published the first detailed description in "An Essay on the Shaking Palsy" in 1817. Since then, our understanding of PD has significantly advanced, with major developments in the areas of neuroimaging, genetics, and treatment strategies.

Society and Culture

Parkinson's Disease has been known to affect several high-profile individuals and has been depicted in various forms of media. Awareness campaigns and research funding have increased public knowledge of the condition and its impact.