What is Parkinson's disease?

What is Parkinson's disease? Symptoms, causes, and ways to cope with the diagnosis.

There are some 90,000 people in the United States who are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease every year. The disease is typically seen in older individuals around the age of 60. In most cases, Parkinson's disease is not fatal, although those who are living with it may have to change some aspects of their daily routines.

Parkinson's disease affects the brain, mainly within the substantia nigra. This section of the brain produces dopamine, which sends signals that control muscle movements. With natural aging, cells in the substantia nigra die slowly, but for people with Parkinson's, this happens quickly, causing less dopamine production. This then lowers the control an individual has over their movements.

• The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
• A person who is diagnosed without cause has what is called idiopathic Parkinson's disease.
• The biggest risk factor for Parkinson's disease is age, as it is more often seen in older people. Gender also plays a role because males are more likely to get Parkinson's than females.
• Repeated head trauma can increase a person's risk, as can environmental factors like exposure to pesticides and herbicides used for farming.

Here are some key factors associated with the development of Parkinson's disease:

1. Genetic Factors:

• While Parkinson's disease is not usually considered a purely genetic disorder, certain genetic mutations have been linked to an increased risk of developing the condition.
• Mutations in specific genes, such as the LRRK2, SNCA (alpha-synuclein), and Parkin genes, have been identified in some cases of familial (inherited) Parkinson's disease, where the condition runs in families.
• However, the majority of Parkinson's cases are sporadic, meaning they occur without a known family history of the disease.

2. Environmental Factors:

• Environmental factors and exposures may contribute to the development of Parkinson's disease, especially in sporadic cases.
• Some research has suggested that exposure to certain pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals can increase the risk of Parkinson's disease.
• There is also ongoing investigation into the potential role of viral infections, head injuries, and other environmental factors in Parkinson's development.

3. Neurodegenerative Processes:

• Parkinson's disease is characterized by the gradual degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons (nerve cells) in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra.
• The loss of dopamine in the brain leads to the motor symptoms associated with Parkinson's, such as tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability.

4. Alpha-Synuclein Protein Accumulation:

• One hallmark of Parkinson's disease is the abnormal accumulation of a protein called alpha-synuclein in the brain, forming clumps called Lewy bodies.
• The exact role of alpha-synuclein in the development of Parkinson's disease is still under investigation, but it is believed to contribute to neuronal dysfunction and cell death.

What are the symptoms of Parkinson's disease?

• One of the most common symptoms of Parkinson's disease is experiencing tremors, or rhythmic shaking. This often occurs in the hands.
• Other symptoms of the disease are slowed movement, impaired posture and balance, changes in writing, and stiffness of muscles.

It's important to note that while these factors are associated with the development of Parkinson's disease, the exact interplay between genetics and environmental factors is complex and not fully understood. Additionally, the presence of risk factors does not guarantee the development of Parkinson's, and the disease can vary widely in its progression and severity from person to person.

Treatment for Parkinson's disease aims to manage its symptoms, improve quality of life, and slow down its progression. The specific treatment plan can vary from person to person depending on the stage and severity of the disease. Here are common approaches and treatments for Parkinson's disease:

1. Medications:

• Levodopa (L-dopa): Levodopa is one of the primary medications used to treat Parkinson's. It is converted into dopamine in the brain, replacing the deficient dopamine levels.
• Dopamine Agonists: These drugs mimic the action of dopamine in the brain and can be used in combination with levodopa or as a standalone treatment.
• MAO-B Inhibitors: Monoamine oxidase type B (MAO-B) inhibitors help increase dopamine levels in the brain by preventing its breakdown.
• COMT Inhibitors: Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors can extend the effectiveness of levodopa by blocking its breakdown.
• Anticholinergic Drugs: These drugs may be used to control tremors and some other motor symptoms.

2. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS):

DBS involves the surgical implantation of electrodes into specific areas of the brain, often the subthalamic nucleus or globus pallidus. These electrodes are connected to a pulse generator (similar to a pacemaker) implanted in the chest. DBS can help reduce motor symptoms and improve motor control.

3. Physical and Occupational Therapy:

Physical therapy helps maintain or improve mobility, balance, and strength.

Occupational therapy focuses on improving daily living skills, fine motor coordination, and adapting to changes in function.

4. Speech Therapy:

Speech therapy can help individuals with Parkinson's improve their speech, voice projection, and swallowing difficulties.

5. Exercise and Rehabilitation:

Regular exercise, such as aerobic workouts, stretching, and balance exercises, can help manage symptoms and maintain physical fitness.

Programs like Rock Steady Boxing and Dance for Parkinson's have been shown to be beneficial.

5. Diet and Nutrition:

A balanced diet can help manage constipation, which is a common non-motor symptom of Parkinson's. Adequate nutrition is essential for overall health.

Supportive Therapies:

Supportive treatments may include psychological counseling, support groups, and education about the disease to help patients and their families cope with the emotional and social aspects of living with Parkinson's.

Experimental and Emerging Therapies:

Researchers are continually exploring new therapies and treatments for Parkinson's disease, including gene therapies, stem cell therapies, and neuroprotective agents. These are still being studied in clinical trials.

It's important for individuals with Parkinson's disease to work closely with a healthcare team, including neurologists and movement disorder specialists, to develop a personalized treatment plan. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms, optimize function, and improve the individual's quality of life. Treatment plans may need to be adjusted over time as the disease progresses or as new therapies become available. Researchers will continue to study Parkinson's disease to gain a better understanding of its causes and to develop more effective treatments for this neurological disorder.