In 1817, an English doctor named James Parkinson described Parkinson’s disease as “shaking palsy” in a medical journal; subsequently, the disease was named after him. In the U.S., Parkinson’s disease affects 1.5 million people, striking one out of every 100 persons over the age of 60. Every year, 50,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, with men being diagnosed more often than women.

Parkinson’s and Nerve Damage

Parkinson’s disease is a long-lasting and progressive illness of the nerve cells in the brain that control muscle movement. These nerve cells produce a chemical neurotransmitter called dopamine, which transmits signals between various parts of the brain. But the nerve cells do not produce dopamine when they become damaged. It is not known how the brain’s nerve cells sustain damage.

Not all sufferers of Parkinson’s disease show the same symptoms. Their bodies may shake and their hands, legs, jaw, or head may tremble – though these symptoms are more pronounced when the patient is at rest and less apparent when the patient moves around. Their handwriting may also become shaky or unstable. Their limbs may appear to be rigid or stiff, and they may develop a stooping or unsteady posture, which can sometimes lead to a loss of balance. Parkinson’s sufferers may also show signs of bradykinesia, or slowness in movements, as well as memory loss. As the disease progresses, these symptoms usually worsen.

In addition, Parkinson’s patients may have problems with chewing, swallowing, digestion, urination, and sleeping. As a result, these people face difficulties in walking, completing chores, and performing other common functions and activities. Not surprisingly, patients tend to feel overwhelmed by all of these symptoms and can become depressed.

Though the exact cause of Parkinson’s is unknown, research studies have shown that specific gene mutations may be associated with the disease. These mutations can either be inherited or caused by environmental changes. Certain toxins or viruses may also trigger Parkinson’s disease.

In people affected by Parkinson’s disease, scientists have detected certain changes in the brains such as:

An Absence of Dopamine: Though it is not clearly understood why, a lack of dopamine (a chemical messenger in the brain) in Parkinson’s sufferers could be a trigger for the disease.

Reduced Norepinephrine Levels: In people with Parkinson’s disease, the nerve cells that produce another neurotransmitter known as norepinephrine are damaged, which results in low production of this chemical. Norepinephrine helps regulate certain autonomic functions such as blood pressure.

Unusual Lewy Bodies: Certain protein clumps called Lewy bodies have been observed in the brains of the people who suffer from Parkinson’s disease, though their role in the onset and symptoms of the disease is not known.

There are no tests to specifically diagnose Parkinson’s disease.  Sometimes X-rays are taken to rule out other diseases that present with the same symptoms. But in practice, Parkinson’s disease is usually diagnosed using the following tests.

Medical History: A doctor may ask about any medications the patient is taking and inquire as to whether anybody in the patient’s family is suffering from or has suffered from Parkinson’s disease.

Physical Exam: The exam may include tests to evaluate walking, hand-eye coordination, and performing simple tasks.

After completing these examinations, the doctor may diagnose Parkinson’s disease if he or she notices:

• More than one sign of Parkinson’s disease such as shaking, tremors, slow movements, body rigidity, or muscle stiffness

• Symptoms occurring only on one side of the body

• Trembling and tremors that become more pronounced when at rest

• A reduction in symptoms after the medication levodopa (which is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s) is administered

Parkinson’s disease cannot be cured, but the symptoms can be controlled through certain medications such as levodopa. A doctor may also recommend physical therapy to improve mobility.

Sometimes, deep brain surgery may be recommended in people who have advanced stages of Parkinson’s disease. This procedure involves implanting an electrode deep within the part of the brain that oversees movement. Then a pacemaker-type device that controls impulses sent to the electrode is implanted under the skin. The goal is to regulate the electrical stimulation to the brain to help stabilize the body’s movements. 

Although researchers are working desperately to find a cure for Parkinson’s, it may take a while. However, the symptoms of the disease can largely be controlled through medication, and surgery can sometimes assist those who are in the advanced stages of Parkinson’s.

A healthy diet and regular exercise can help keep the body strong, which can lessen the effects of Parkinson’s. It is also to helpful for a Parkinson’s patient to have a good support system in place not only to help cope with the emotional difficulties associated with the condition, but also to assist them with day-to-day activities. The good news is that many people with Parkinson’s disease are able to live a relatively normal life.