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Parkinson's disease From MayoClinic.com
Parkinson's disease is a disorder that affects nerve cells (neurons) in the part of the brain controlling muscle movement. People with Parkinson's often experience trembling, muscle rigidity, difficulty walking, and problems with balance and coordination. These symptoms generally develop after age 50, although the disease affects a small percentage of younger people as well. Parkinson's disease is progressive, meaning the signs and symptoms become worse over time. But although Parkinson's may eventually be disabling, the disease often progresses gradually, and most people have many years of productive living after a diagnosis. Furthermore, unlike other serious neurologic diseases, Parkinson's disease is treatable. For decades, the drug levodopa, commonly known as L-dopa, has been the mainstay of Parkinson's disease treatment. But L-dopa can cause side effects, and it may become less effective as the disease worsens, especially as new symptoms develop. In addition, responses to the drug may become more erratic over time. For that reason newer drugs are now also used, either alone or in combination with levodopa. Another treatment that has had encouraging results is deep brain stimulation (DBS). DBS involves implanting a brain stimulator, similar to a heart pacemaker, in certain areas of the brain. For some people, DBS may control symptoms so well that medications can be greatly reduced. Meanwhile, research into other treatments continues. Signs and symptoms The earliest symptom of Parkinson's disease can be as subtle as an arm that doesn't swing when you walk, a mild tremor in the fingers of one hand or soft, mumbling speech that's difficult to understand. You also may lack energy, feel depressed or have trouble sleeping. Or you may notice that it takes you longer to shower, shave, eat or do other routine tasks. Other signs and symptoms of Parkinson's disease may include:
Parkinson's disease > next > 1 > 2 > 3 > 4
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