Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease refers to the progressive neurological condition characterized by mobility problems. Coordinated and smooth bodily movements of the muscles are possible because of dopamine, a chemical produced in the brain called the substantia nigra. However, in this disease, the cells found in this area begin to deteriorate and die. When it does, dopamine levels start to reduce. Once they drop to around sixty to eight percent of their normal levels, Parkinson’s symptoms begin to present themselves.
Early symptoms may develop years before the person starts to experience motor issues. Some of these signs are anosmia, constipation, cramped handwriting, stooped posture, and voice changes. The primary motor issues of Parkinson’s are tremors, slow movements, stiffness of the arms and legs, and balance problems. There are many other early indicators of the disease. However, they can often go unrecognized because of how common they are in different conditions.
The precise cause of Parkinson’s remains unknown. Some think of it to be a combination of environmental and genetic components. However, research has found sex, race, age, family history, toxic exposure, and head injuries to be risk factors that can potentially contribute to the development of Parkinson’s disease.
