Parkinson's Disease - Symptoms & Causes

What is Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement, leading to tremors, stiffness and difficulty with balance and walking. It occurs when nerve cells in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra become impaired or die. These cells are responsible for producing dopamine, a chemical messenger that helps regulate movement and coordination.

While Parkinson's disease is often associated with older adults, it can affect people as young as 40 or 50. The condition progresses gradually, and its impact varies widely between individuals.

Stages of Parkinson's disease

The progression of Parkinson's disease is often described in five stages:

1. Stage 1: Mild symptoms affecting one side of the body. Minimal impact on daily activities.
2. Stage 2: Symptoms affect both sides of the body. Daily tasks may become more challenging.
3. Stage 3: Loss of balance and slower movements. Falls may occur. Activities of daily living require more effort.
4. Stage 4: Severe symptoms. Individuals may need assistance with most activities, for instance, walking with the support of a walker.
5. Stage 5: Advanced disease. Individuals may be bedridden or require full-time care.

What are the symptoms of Parkinson's disease?

Symptoms can be divided into motor and non-motor categories:

Motor symptoms:

• Tremor (shaking) in hands, arms, legs, or jaw, often at rest
• Muscle stiffness or rigidity
• Slowness of movement (bradykinesia)
• Difficulty with balance and coordination
• Shuffling walk or poor posture
• Trouble with writing
• Softer, quicker or slurring speech
• Fewer automatic movements like blinking, smiling or swinging the arms while walking

Non-motor symptoms:

• Sleep disturbances, including vivid dreams or insomnia
• Constipation or digestive issues
• Mood changes, such as depression or anxiety
• Cognitive changes, including memory or thinking difficulties
• Loss of sense of smell
• Fatigue and reduced facial expressions

When to seek medical attention?

If you notice persistent tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, or difficulty with balance, it is important to consult a neurologist. Early diagnosis allows for timely treatment, which can improve quality of life and improve disease management.

When to visit an urgent care centre?

Urgent care should be sought if you experience sudden, severe complications such as:

• Severe falls causing injury
• Sudden worsening of mobility or inability to walk
• Confusion or sudden cognitive changes
• Severe swallowing difficulties leading to choking

These situations require prompt evaluation to prevent serious harm.

What causes Parkinson's disease?

The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is unknown, but several factors may contribute:

• Genetic factors: Mutations may increase susceptibility.
• Environmental exposures: Long-term exposure to pesticides or heavy metals may play a role.
• Age: Risk increases with age, particularly after 50 years.
• Brain changes: Loss of dopamine-producing cells in the substantia nigra.

What are the complications of Parkinson's disease?

Without management, Parkinson's disease can lead to:

• Falls and injuries due to impaired balance
• Swallowing difficulties and poor nutrition
• Sleep disorders and fatigue
• Cognitive decline or dementia
• Depression and anxiety
• Reduced independence in daily activities

How do you prevent Parkinson's disease?

There is currently no guaranteed way to prevent Parkinson's disease, but certain measures may reduce risk or support brain health:

• Regular physical activity to maintain mobility and balance
• Healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Avoiding exposure to pesticides and harmful chemicals
• Staying socially and mentally active