parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the gradual loss of dopamine-producing neurons, primarily in the substantia nigra region of the brain. dopamine deficiency disrupts normal motor function, resulting in characteristic symptoms and affecting quality of life significantly.
symptoms:
tremors (typically starting in one hand)
rigidity or stiffness of limbs and trunk
slowness of movement (bradykinesia)
impaired balance and coordination
gait disturbances, including shuffling walk
non-motor symptoms: cognitive decline, sleep disorders, mood disorders, loss of smell
causes and risk factors:
exact cause unknown; combination of genetic and environmental factors
genetic predisposition in some cases (mutations in genes such as SNCA, LRRK2, PARK7)
age (most common in people over 60)
environmental exposures (pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals)
treatment:
currently no cure; treatment focuses on symptom management:
medications to increase dopamine levels (levodopa, dopamine agonists)
supportive therapies (physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy)
surgical interventions (deep brain stimulation) in advanced cases