Parkinson’s disease guide

The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease isn’t known and it is a disease which gradually gets worse over time and affects thousands of people throughout the world. It is a disease which affects people of all races, gender and age, though it is more prevalent in those over the age of 65. It is a particularly debilitating disease with symptoms that affect the movement, gait, posture and speech in the sufferer.

What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease is the degeneration of an area deep in the brain called the basal ganglia, or to be more precise the substantia nigra. This area in the brain contains black pigmented cells which in a normal human being produce chemical transmitters, of which the most important is dopamine. These transmitters are chemical which pass on messages from one cell to the other, they either stimulate or inhabit as necessary. (more…)

Understanding Parkinson’s disease

There are no specific tests used to aid in the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, a correct diagnosis relies on two out of three major signs being met. The three major signs of Parkinson’s are, tremor of limbs while resting, rigidity in the muscles and bradykinesia.

Other factors will also be taken into account such as the absence of secondary causes such as multiple small strokes and antipsychotic medication. Of the three conditions those suffering from Parkinson’s are usually more generally aware of tremor and bradykinesia.

In order to make a correct diagnosis the doctor will perform a neurological examination which is of a set standard. This examination will involve a variety of simple tests based on reactions, reflexes and movement. (more…)