Parkinson's Disease: Stages, Symptoms and Treatment

Parkinson's disease is a brain disorder, which mostly affects around 60-years of age. The cause of this disease is currently unknown. Parkinson's disease specifically targets the nerve cells in the brain, which control our muscle movement. Dr. Maria Barretto, CEO of Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorder Society talks about the symptoms, treatment and aftercare for Parkinson’s disease.

 

What is Parkinson disease?

Parkinson disease is a brain disorder. It occurs when certain nerve cells (neurons) in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra die or become impaired. Normally, these cells produce a vital chemical known as dopamine. Dopamine allows smooth, coordinated function of the body's muscles and movement. When approximately 80 per cent of the dopamine-producing cells are damaged, the symptoms of Parkinson disease appear.

 

What are the signs and symptoms of Parkinson disease?
The loss of dopamine production in the brain causes the primary symptoms of Parkinson disease.

Progression of the Parkinson's disease

While Parkinson's can be a frightening diagnosis, life expectancy does not change particularly with better care and prompt treatment. Symptoms of the disease progress slowly over 10 to 20 years but an early treatment can allow patients to live a normal life and maintain their job. Worldwide 7 million to 10 million people suffer from Parkinson's disease.

    

he key signs of Parkinson disease are:'
 • Tremor (shaking)
• Slowness of movement
• Rigidity (stiffness)
• Difficulty with balance

 

Other signs of Parkinson disease may include:

• Small, cramped handwriting
• Stiff facial expression
• Shuffling walk
• Muffled speech
• Depression

How does the disease progress?

Symptoms normally begin on one side of the body and usually spread to the other side as Parkinson’s progresses. It is difficult to estimate the rate of progression as every individual with Parkinson’s may experience different symptoms. Symptoms present in the earlier stages of the condition may worsen and new symptoms may appear during the course of Parkinson’s.

Who gets Parkinson disease?

Parkinson disease shows no social, ethnic, economic or geographic boundaries. While the condition usually develops after the age of 65, 15 per cent of those diagnosed are under 50.

 
How is Parkinson disease diagnosed?

The process of making a Parkinson disease diagnosis can be difficult. There is no X-ray or blood test that can confirm Parkinson disease.  A physician arrives at the diagnosis only after a thorough examination. 

Blood tests and brain scans known as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be performed to rule out other conditions that have similar symptoms.  People suspected of having Parkinson disease should consider seeking the care of a neurologist, who specialises in Parkinson disease.