World Parkinson’s Day is commemorated every year on April 11 to raise awareness about the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world.
It is estimated that more than 10 million people worldwide live with progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting the nervous system and the parts of the body controlled by the nerves.
Parkinson’s disease (PD) occurs when nerve cells in the basal ganglia of the brain responsible for movements become impaired or die. When these nerve cells deteriorate, they lose their ability to produce an important brain chemical called dopamine often referred to as the “feel good” hormone.
Risk factors
Although the exact cause of the disease is still unknown, scientists believe a combination of genetic and environmental factors work together to determine the onset of the disease.
- About 15% of people with Parkinson’s disease have a family history of the condition
- Several studies have shown that environmental factors, including pesticides, air pollution, and industrial solvents, could increase the risk of the disease
- The risk of PD increases with age, although younger people can be affected as well
- Men are 1.5 times more likely to be affected than women
- Repeated injuries to the head can increase one’s risk of developing the condition
Early symptoms
1. Tremor– The involuntary rhythmic shaking happens when the muscles are still which usually goes away with movement. The tremors often start in the fingers or hands with what’s called a pill-rolling motion and can spread to both sides of the body. However, several other health issues, like multiple sclerosis can also cause tremors.
2. Dystonia– Stiffness or cramping in a muscle or limb is an early sign of Parkinson’s disease although stiffness can be caused by many other conditions. The patients may experience pain in the muscles that restrict their movements.
3. Loss of automatic movements– Certain changes in the ability to perform unconscious movements like blinking, smiling, or swinging arms while…
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