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5 Things You Must Know About Parkinsons

1. Uncertain Origins

The main factors of Parkinson's disease are uncertain. However, it has been noted that there seem to be some genetic component to many cases, because the disease seems to run in some families. This disorder occurs more often in men than women. Another risk factor for developing the disease appears to be too much exposure of the body to pesticides and herbicides. Some medicinal drug, especially those that are prescribed for psychiatric conditions can cause side effects that are the same as the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, though in most instances they are just temporary. It also possible that a number of factors can disturb the normal activity of the dopamine producing cells in the brain and hence produce the disease.

2. A Dramatic Decrease in Dopamine

Parkinson's disease is a neurological disorder that usually occurs in people who are over 60, however it can still strike younger people but this is usually not common. In this disease, the brain cells the make the chemical dopamine become dysfunctional or die. One of the main functions of dopamine is to help one's body regulate muscle movement. The drop in dopamine causes problems with physical activities over time, this includes speaking, walking and using fine motor skills. Generally, a decrease in dopamine production is a normal part of aging but in people with Parkinson's disease the drop off dopamine is excessive.

3. The Muscles Show Symptoms

Some of the signs of Parkinson's disease include a loss of facial expression, tremors in the arms and legs, poor balance, slow shuffling walk, muscle rigidity and the difficulty in speaking clearly. And in some instances, there are people who experience dementia in the later stages of their condition. The severity of these symptoms varies considerably from one person to another and oftentimes tremor is the most prominent problem. As the symptoms worsen, those people with Parkinson's will have great difficulty in walking and performing tasks that are necessary for daily living without assistance.

4. Doctors Orders

Parkinson's disease is an incurable progressive disorder which means that the symptoms will worsen over time. However, there are ways to slow down its progress and lighten the effects of some of its symptoms. There are medicines available that target the dopamine system in the brain, this is one avenue of treatment. Medications that can help control tremors are another. Other treatments focus on promoting the cell's health. For example, the coenzyme Q10 which is used by the cells to produce energy and process oxygen, is low in individuals with Parkinson's disease. Supplements for it can delay the progression of symptoms.

5. Strive for Resources

There are a lot of things that people living with Parkinson's disease can do to cope with their condition. They can go for physical therapy which helps promote and maintain muscle tone and strength as well as balance and coordination for walking. There are also speech therapists who can teach skills to help people speak clearly and at a proper volume. Occupational therapy also offers ways to make dressing and other activities simpler for people with weakened motor skills. And finally, healthy lifestyle factors such as exercise, a good diet and social support which contribute to effecting coping and a decrease in the impact of chronic illness.