There is no cure for Parkinson's disease
The symptoms of the malady are a direct result of the death of neurons (brain cells) that control motion. The neurons manufacture a brain chemical called Dopamine. This is the chemical that transmits impulses (brain messages) that assist the brain in controlling motion. Without Dopamine, the nerve impulses cannot function normally and the result is a host of problems such as, difficult movement, loss of balance, difficulty in swallowing and slurred speech.
There are a variety of drugs to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's Disease. These drugs are capable of slowing down the progression of the disease, but not the death of neurons. By the time symptoms appear, it is speculated that over 80% of the neurons manufacturing Dopamine have died. Current research, aside from seeking a cure, is focused on detecting the death of those cells before symptoms appear.
Parkinson's disease is an affliction of the elderly with patients first noticing symptoms around 60. There are exceptions of course (e.g., Michael J Fox), but the condition is rare in the young. Though the cause is not understood, it can be caused by a toxic substance or drugs, most cases are called "idiopathic". That means there is no known cause, though several theories have been put forward.
The primary symptoms include tremor, rigidity, slow movement, the loss of balance and impaired walking. Tremor is the most prevalent symptom and is worst when the patient is at rest or under stress. The tremor normally will appear on one side, in the hands, feet, jaw, lips, and facial muscles. Strangely, the tremor often disappears when the patient moves that particular part, and when sleeping. In some patients, muscle rigidity is the first symptom. They begin to move slowly, have trouble balancing when they walk, slope forward to retain balance and tend to fall either forward or backward. Other symptoms observed might be slurred speech, difficult swallowing, depression and confusion (dementia).
Treatment is specific, aimed at slowing the progression of the disease. It is important for the patient to retain independent living for as long as possible. Patients should exercise as much as possible, eat well balanced meals and stay in the best physical condition possible. High fiber foods and a stool softener will help stave off constipation, a common side effect of the disease and the drugs used to slow it. Of all the drugs used to control the symptoms, Levodopa is a mainstay. It replaces the dopamine lost in the brain.
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