Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a movement disorder that occurs when brain cells that make the chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) called dopamine die over time. This creates a shortage of dopamine in the brain.
Trembling and shaking (called tremor) in an arm or leg, especially when at rest, is often the first symptom of PD. Other common symptoms include:
- Slow movement
- An inability to get started moving, freezing in place
- Stiff limbs
- A shuffling gait
- Stooped posture
In some cases, people with PD may not show their usual facial expressions, or may speak in an unusually soft voice.
Diagnosing PD
Currently, no test can clearly identify PD in a person. So, in order to diagnose PD, doctors must carefully evaluate patients' symptoms, including what they are, how severe they are, and when they started.
Neurologists (doctors who specialize in the brain and nervous system) have experience with PD. They are best suited to diagnose the disease.
The cause of PD is not clear. Genes may play a role, but researchers believe the disease's onset also depends on environmental factors.
Treating Parkinson's Disease
There is no cure for PD, but many patients don't require treatment for several years after they are diagnosed. When their symptoms do become severe, their doctors may prescribe drugs that help replace dopamine.
Other approaches to treating severe PD include:
Pallidotomy—a type of brain surgery that can effectively reduce symptoms in many people
Deep-brain stimulation—a procedure in which a pacemaker-like device is placed in the brain to reduce tremors
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