ARIZONA CHAPTER OF THE
Frequently Asked Questions - PD
Q: What is Parkinson's disease?
A: Parkinson disease is a brain disorder. It occurs when certain
nerve cells (neurons) in a part of the brain called the substantia
nigra die or become impaired. Normally, these cells produce a vital
chemical known as dopamine. Dopamine allows smooth, coordinated
function of the body's muscles and movement. When approximately 80%
of the dopamine-producing cells are damaged, the symptoms of
Parkinson disease appear.
Q: What are the signs and symptoms of
Parkinson's disease?
A: The loss of dopamine production in the brain causes the primary
symptoms of Parkinson disease. The key signs of Parkinson disease
are: tremor (shaking), slowness of movement rigidity (stiffness),
and difficulty with balance. Other signs of Parkinson's disease may
include: small, cramped handwriting, stiff facial expression,
shuffling walk, muffled speech, and depression.
Q: Who Gets Parkinson's
Disease?
A: The process of making a Parkinson disease diagnosis can be
difficult. There is no X-ray or blood test that can confirm
Parkinson disease. A physician arrives at the diagnosis only after a
thorough examination. Blood tests and brain scans known as magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI) may be performed to rule out other
conditions that have similar symptoms. People suspected of having
Parkinson disease should consider seeking the care of a neurologist
who specializes in Parkinson disease.
Q: What is the Treatment
for Parkinson's Disease?
A: There are a number of effective medicines that help to ease the
symptoms of Parkinson disease. Most symptoms are caused by lack of
dopamine. The medicines most commonly used will attempt to either
replace or mimic dopamine, which improves the tremor, rigidity and
slowness associated with Parkinson disease. Several new medicines
are being studied that may slow the progression. Many promise to
improve the lives of people with Parkinson disease.
Q: Can Surgery Help
Parkinson's Disease?
A: Surgery can ease the symptoms of Parkinson disease, but it is not
a cure. Because of the risks associated with brain surgery, it is
usually not considered unless all appropriate medications have been
tried unsuccessfully. When considering surgery, it is important to
see both a neurologist and brain surgeon who specialize in the
treatment of Parkinson disease.
Source: National Parkinson Foundation Website: www.parkinson.org