What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a condition in which areas of the brain become progressively damaged over many years, according to the NHS.
What are the symptoms?
The three main symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are tremors or shaking, slowed movement and muscle stiffness, the NHS says.
Other possible symptoms include balance problems, a reduced sense of smell, nerve pain, excessive sweating and dizziness.
Some people may also experience disrupted sleep, excess saliva and difficulty swallowing, which can contribute to malnutrition and dehydration.
What are the early signs?
Parkinson’s symptoms often develop gradually. In some cases, the first sign is a barely noticeable tremor affecting just one side of the body.
During the early stages, a person may have limited facial expression, while one or both arms may stop swinging naturally when they walk.
Speech may also become quieter or slurred, with symptoms typically becoming more pronounced as the condition progresses.
What are the causes?
Scientists believe Parkinson’s disease may result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
The condition develops when nerve cells in a particular area of the brain are lost.
However, it is still unclear why this loss of nerve cells occurs. Research is continuing to investigate the possible causes of Parkinson’s disease.
Genetic factors can increase a person’s risk, meaning Parkinson’s may sometimes run in families.
Environmental influences, including pollution, have also been suggested as possible contributors, although the NHS says evidence for these links remains inconclusive.
How is it diagnosed?
There is no single test that can definitively confirm Parkinson’s disease. Instead, doctors usually make a diagnosis by assessing a person’s symptoms, medical history and physical condition.
A specialist may ask the person to write or draw, walk or speak while checking for characteristic signs of the condition.
They may also assess facial movement and look for slowness or difficulty moving the limbs.
How many people are affected?
About 145,000 people are living with Parkinson’s disease in the UK, according to the charity Parkinson’s UK.
What happens if someone is diagnosed?
Anyone diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease must contact the DVLA, according to Parkinson’s UK, as they may need to undergo a medical or driving assessment.
The charity also recommends informing insurance providers and finding out what financial support may be available.
People with the condition are also encouraged to include more exercise in their daily routine.
Can it be treated?
There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but a range of treatments can help manage and reduce its symptoms.
The main options include medication, exercise, therapy and, in some cases, surgery. The most suitable approach varies from person to person.
What medication is available and what are the side effects?
Medication can help ease key Parkinson’s symptoms, including tremors and difficulties with movement.
The three main types commonly used are levodopa, dopamine agonists and MAO-B inhibitors. Their effects can differ from one person to another.
Possible side effects include impulsive or compulsive behaviour, hallucinations, sleep problems and changes in blood pressure.
What therapy is available?
People with Parkinson’s disease can access several forms of therapy through the NHS.
These include physiotherapy to help relieve muscle stiffness, occupational therapy to support everyday activities, and speech and language therapy.
Does this change the way you live?
For most people, Parkinson’s disease does not significantly affect life expectancy. However, more advanced symptoms can lead to greater disability and poorer health.
The condition can also be associated with cognitive difficulties, mood changes and other mental health problems.
People with Parkinson’s are encouraged to exercise regularly. Scientists say that 2.5 hours of exercise each week may be enough to help slow the progression of symptoms.