What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that is characterized by a lack of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Around 500,000 Americans currently suffer from Parkinson’s disease, making it the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder in the United States. Parkinson’s is not fatal, though most patients experience slightly shorter lifespans.

Symptoms

Some of the most common Parkinson’s symptoms are as follows:

• Tremor
• Slower movements
• Muscle stiffness
• Lack of balance & coordination
• Depression
• Difficulty speaking
• Skin problems

Causes & Treatments

The cause of Parkinson’s disease is not currently known, but it is believed to be a result of a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Additionally, while there is no known cure for Parkinson’s disease, various treatments are available to help manage symptoms. These treatments can range from attending physical therapy to taking medications (i.e. levodopa and MAO-B inhibitors) to having surgical procedures (i.e. deep brain stimulation).