Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that damages the nerve cells that produce dopamine, an essential chemical for smooth muscles and movement control. Parkinson’s disease is characterized by both motor and non-motor symptoms.
It is unknown how people get Parkinson’s disease, and less than 10% cases are the result of it being genetically inherited.
In most cases, Parkinson’s disease affects people over the age of 65, but it can appear at a younger age as well.
Some of the main symptoms include:
- Tremors
- Muscle rigidity
- Slowness of movement
- Changes in balance
- Quiet voice
There are several forms of treatment for Parkinson’s disease which boost the level of dopamine in the brain. Medication comes in pill form, injection or administered directly into the small intestine via a tube.