Parkinson’s disease

Definition

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive degenerative disorder of the central nervous system, primarily affecting movement control, mostly in adulthood, over 60 years of age. Motor symptoms include resting tremors, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), akinesia (loss of ability to perform movements), muscle rigidity, painful contractions, postural instability, and difficulty speaking. Non-motor symptoms include mood, cognitive, sleep, gastrointestinal, and sensory disorders.

What are the causes of the disease?

Scientists believe that a combination of genetic and environmental factors contributes to the etiology of the disease. People with a family history of Parkinson’s have a higher risk of developing it, and exposure to air pollution, pesticides, and solvents can increase the risk. DopamineA neurotransmitter found in the brain and central nervous sy... More deficiency is characteristic of the pathological picture, with the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the pars compacta of the substantia nigra and an accumulation of alpha-synuclein protein in Lewy bodies.

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease is based on clinical observation and patient history. Medications may be prescribed to control symptoms and increase dopamine levels. In patients who do not respond to pharmacological treatment, deep brain stimulation may be indicated. In all cases, regular physical exercise and a healthy diet, along with occupational therapy, are essential to restore and maintain abilities and improve the person’s well-being.