Parkinsons

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons, particularly in the substantia nigra region of the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating movement, and its deficiency leads to the motor symptoms that hallmark the disease. These symptoms include bradykinesia (slowness of movement), resting tremor, muscle rigidity, and postural instability. Non-motor symptoms such as cognitive impairment, mood disorders, sleep disturbances, and autonomic dysfunction may also occur.

The exact cause of Parkinson's is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on medical history and neurological examination, as there is no definitive test for the disease. The presence of Lewy bodies, abnormal aggregates of the protein alpha-synuclein, in the brains of the affected individuals is a key pathological feature. While there is no cure, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and typically includes medication like levodopa (which the brain converts to dopamine) and other therapies like deep brain stimulation for certain patients. Pharmacologic treatments aim to either increase dopamine levels or mimic its action in the brain, providing symptomatic relief.