Overview
Parkinson's disease is a slowly progressive condition of the brain that affects movement, caused by the gradual loss of nerve cells that make dopamine. It usually begins after age 60 with a slight tremor and stiffness and advances over years. While there is no cure, medicines that replace dopamine can control symptoms well for a long time, and physiotherapy helps people stay active and independent for as long as possible.
Symptoms
- A tremor, often starting in one hand at rest
- Slowness of movement
- Muscle stiffness
- Small handwriting and a soft voice
- Stooped posture and problems with balance
When to see a doctor
See a doctor, ideally a neurologist, for a new tremor, slowness or stiffness so treatment can be started to keep you active.
Causes
Loss of dopamine-producing brain cells for reasons not fully understood; ageing, genetics and some environmental exposures play a part.