Parkinson's disease

If you, or someone you love suffers from Parkinson's disease, it's important to have all the facts. Once you've fully educated yourself about Parkinson's disease and its causes, you're much better able to consider treatments, and also to learn how to alter your diet, so that you can enjoy the best possible quality of life.

Parkinson's Disease is a debilitating and progressive illness of the nervous system and to date there is no cure. Medical advances have been made that mean that people with Parkinson's disease are living longer than ever.

So what exactly is Parkinson's disease and who is at risk? This illness occurs when the brain becomes unable to produce enough of the hormone Dopamine. This hormone is responsible for regulating cell communication, so when there's not enough of it, neurons fire out of control, and the sufferer can't control his or her body movements. Most cases emerge in people who are fifty or older, but some instances are also found in people younger than forty.

Medicine hasn't yet discovered what causes the outbreak of the illness, but doctors and researchers believe that it has to do with a combination of genetics and environment. While this illness isn't necessarily genetic, and many people who get it have no history of it in their family, other families seem to have multiple cases throughout the generations.

The illness worsens over time, but while there is no cure, it's possible to slow its progress, and keep the symptoms under control. Once you have been diagnosed, your doctor will work with you to determine the best form of treatment.

No two cases are alike, so some medications work better for some people than others. The dosage of medication will be increased as the condition worsens. Another option for treatment is surgery, but this is usually only used as a last resort. Your doctor can also advise you on diet and exercise regimes that can help keep you fitter for longer.