Parkinson's disease is a degenerative disease of the
brain. It affects parts of the brain that are
associated with normal movement and balance.
This disease is caused by
the loss of brain cells that
produce dopamine. The
area affected is called the
substantia nigra.
Dopamine is a
neurotransmitter or a
chemical messenger that
carries signals between
the neurons in the brain.
Dopamine enables
smooth, coordinated
movements.
The symptoms
appear only when
around 80 per cent
of the dopamine
producing cells in
the brain are
destroyed. The
earliest symptom is
a fine tremor of
hands while at rest.
Exactly what causes Parkinson’s disease is unclear.
Most experts think that a combination of genetic
and environmental factors is responsible.
The classic symptoms of this condition
are a tremor or shaking of the hand or
other limbs while at rest. Another
classic symptom is rigidity and
increased tone in the body's muscles.
The movements of the body are slowed
(this is termed bradykinesia) and the
patient often finds difficulty in
maintaining balance.
The problems are usually at the beginning of a new activity like
getting up and walking. Once they begin the patients usually
moves too fast, ending up almost running or out of control.
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