About Parkinson's Disease

Understanding the condition, symptoms, and available treatments.

What is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement. It occurs when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine become impaired or die.

Dopamine is a chemical messenger that helps control movement and coordination. When dopamine levels drop, it leads to the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Parkinson's affects everyone differently. Not everyone will experience all symptoms, and the progression varies from person to person.

Parkinson's is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement. It occurs when nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine become impaired or die.

Dopamine is a chemical messenger that helps control movement and coordination. When dopamine levels drop, it leads to the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.

Parkinson's affects everyone differently. Not everyone will experience all symptoms, and the progression varies from person to person.

Main Symptoms

The four primary motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease
Tremor

Shaking that typically begins in a limb, often in the hand or fingers.

Bradykinesia

Slowed movement, making simple tasks difficult and time-consuming.

Muscle Rigidity

Stiff muscles that can limit range of motion and cause pain.

Postural Instability

Impaired balance and coordination that may lead to falls.

Other Symptoms

Parkinson's can also cause non-motor symptoms, which may appear before motor symptoms:

  • Sleep problems
  • Loss of smell
  • Speech and swallowing difficulties
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Constipation
  • Memory and thinking problems

Treatment Options

While there's no cure, various treatments can help manage symptoms
Medication

Various medications can help control symptoms and improve quality of life.

Exercise

Regular physical activity helps maintain mobility, balance, and overall health.

Therapy

Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy can be beneficial.

Surgery

Deep brain stimulation may be an option for some people with advanced Parkinson's.

Living Well with Parkinson's

With the right treatment and support, many people with Parkinson's continue to live full and active lives for many years after diagnosis.

The key is early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, staying active, and having access to support when you need it.

Get Support and Information

You don't have to face Parkinson's alone. There's help and support available.
Medication

Various medications can help control symptoms and improve quality of life.

Surgery

Deep brain stimulation may be an option for some people with advanced Parkinson's.