Parkinson’s disease belongs to a group of nervous system conditions called motor system disorders.  Often the first symptom of Parkinson’s disease is tremor (trembling or shaking) of the limbs, especially when at rest.  Other symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include facial tremor, rigidity or stiffness of the limbs and trunk, slowness of movement and impaired balance or coordination.  Some patients develop a stooped posture and shuffling gait while others become so stiff and rigid they are unable to move.  This disorder may progress to the point of difficulty walking, talking or completing other simple tasks.  People with Parkinson’s disease often reveal less facial expression and they may speak in a very soft, trembling voice.  This disease may cause depression, personality changes, impaired intellectual function, sleep disturbances and sexual difficulties. 

  In the United States alone, about 50,000 new cases are reported every year, the first symptoms appearing, on average, at about age 60; although it is most frequent among people in their 70’s and 80’s and slightly more common in men.  There may be nearly a million people affected in the United States alone.

  There are many theories about the cause of the disease but so far no research has provided conclusive proof that a single mechanism is responsible for the disease.  Many researchers believe that a combination of oxidative damage, environmental toxins, genetic predisposition and accelerated aging may cause the disease.

  There are many stages of Parkinson’s disease and even for an experienced neurologist, making an accurate diagnosis in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease can be challenging.  As of yet, there are no blood or laboratory tests available to diagnose the disease.  Parkinsonian symptoms may also appear in patients with other clearly distinct neurological disorders, consequently a physician may need to observe the patient for some time to correctly diagnose Parkinson’s disease.  Since other neurological diseases may have similar features (Parkinsonism) but require different treatments, making a precise diagnosis early is essential for starting a patient on proper medication.

  There are currently no cures for Parkinson’s disease although a simple chemical found naturally in plants and animals, Levadopa???, may be supplemented to be converted by the body to dopamine which in turn replenishes the brain’s dwindling supply.  This medication helps about 75% of patients with Parkinsonian symptoms, however not all of their symptoms respond equally well to the medication.  It seems that slow movement and rigidity respond best.  Although Levadopa may diminish symptoms, it is not a cure as it does not replace lost nerve cells or stop the progression of the disease. 

  Many have wondered whether improved diet or exercise may arrest or reverse this degenerative disease.  Although eating a well balanced, nutritious diet and exercising for improved mobility can be beneficial for anyone, there does not seem to be any specific diet or exercise treatment that alters the course of the disease. 

  For patients that are severely affected, especially by tremor in their dominant hand, there are various kinds of minimally invasive brain surgeries that have been effective in reducing symptoms.  These surgical treatments include creating a small interruption of the neural circuits within the thalamus (a “relay station” near the center of the brain) to obliterate the area producing the tremors.  More recently, an electrical stimulator has been developed that may be implanted in the thalamus to counteract the loss of the Dopamine nerve cells, which in turn stops or greatly reduces the tremor.

  Clearly, medical research has laid the foundation for scientists to develop new medications and treatments that may help physicians to delay, prevent or even reverse this disease.