

Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that slowly gets worse over time and mainly affects how a person moves. It happens when certain dopaminergic neurons [brain cells that make a chemical called dopamine] begin to break down. These cells are found in a part of the brain[substantia nigra] that helps control movement. As dopamine levels drop, people with Parkinson’s may notice shaking, stiff muscles, slow movements, trouble with balance, and even changes in mood, thinking, or sleep. Some additional non-motor symptoms include cognitive decline, mood disorders, and sleep disturbances.
Symptoms start gradually, sometimes starting with a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand.The disease generally comes under a group of condition known as motor system disorder. The disease is expressed due to the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells.
Symptoms Associated with Parkinson’s disease:
Movement: – There may be a tremor in the hands.
Coordination: – A reduced sense of coordination and balance can cause people to drop items they are holding. In some cases, patients can fall as well.
Gait: – A patient’s posture might undergo several changes. In some cases, they might lean forward slightly, like in a scenario where one is in a hurry. Along with this, one might also develop a shuffling gait.
Facial expression – This can become fixed, due to changes in the nerves that control facial muscles.
Voice: – There may be a tremor in the voice, or the person may speak more softly than before.
Handwriting: – This may become more cramped and smaller.
Sense of smell: – A loss of sense of smell can be an early sign.
Sleep problems: – These are a feature of Parkinson’s, and they may be an early sign. Restless legs may contribute to this.