Parkinson's disease, often referred to simply as Parkinson's, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects movement. It occurs when the nerve cells in the brain that produce dopamine—a neurotransmitter essential for coordinating smooth and controlled muscle movements—begin to break down or die. Symptoms often begin subtly and gradually worsen over time, manifesting as tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement, and balance difficulties. In addition to these motor symptoms, many people with Parkinson's may also experience non-motor symptoms such as sleep disturbances, mood changes, and cognitive issues.
Though the exact cause of Parkinson's disease remains unclear, it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The condition typically affects older adults, with most diagnoses occurring after the age of 60, but it can also occur in younger individuals. While there is currently no cure for Parkinson's, various treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These range from medications aimed at increasing dopamine levels in the brain to surgical interventions like deep brain stimulation in more advanced stages of the disease. Ongoing research is focused on understanding the underlying mechanisms of Parkinson's and developing more effective therapies.