Parkinson's disease

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

Key Points

Progressive brain condition affecting nerve cells
Leads to reduced dopamine levels in the brain
Causes involuntary shaking, slow movement, and muscle stiffness
No cure, but treatments help manage symptoms and improve quality of life

Overview

Parkinson's disease is a condition where parts of the brain become progressively damaged over many years. This damage involves the loss of nerve cells in an area of the brain called the substantia nigra. This loss of nerve cells leads to a reduction in dopamine, a chemical vital for regulating body movement. The decrease in dopamine is responsible for many of the symptoms experienced by people with Parkinson's. The exact reason for this nerve cell loss is not fully understood, but most experts believe it's a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While there is currently no cure, various treatments are available to help manage symptoms and maintain a good quality of life. These include supportive therapies, medication, and in some cases, brain surgery. Most people with Parkinson's start developing symptoms after age 50, though it can occur earlier, and men are slightly more affected than women.

Signs and Symptoms

Involuntary shaking (tremor)
Slow movement
Stiff and inflexible muscles
Depression and anxiety
Balance problems
Loss of sense of smell (anosmia)
Problems sleeping (insomnia)
Memory problems

Things That Increase the Risk

Age over 50 years
Being male
Genetic factors
Environmental factors

Diagnosis

Consulting a doctor for symptom concerns
Doctor asking about experienced problems
Referral to a specialist for evaluation
Further tests by a specialist

Treatment & Management

Supportive therapies like physiotherapy and occupational therapy
Medication to reduce symptoms
Brain surgery (in specific cases)
Regular monitoring by a specialist

Prevention

Early recognition of symptoms
Seeking timely medical advice
Following prescribed treatment plans
Regular monitoring by healthcare professionals

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Parkinson's disease: