Parkinson's Disease
From Psy3241
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[http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/parkinsons_disease/parkinsons_disease.htm Parkinson's Disease Information Page] | [http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/parkinsons_disease/parkinsons_disease.htm Parkinson's Disease Information Page] | ||
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| + | [http://www.neurologychannel.com/parkinsonsdisease/index.shtml Neurology Channel] | ||
Revision as of 20:38, 24 April 2008
Parkinson's disease Also called: Paralysis agitans, Shaking palsy Parkinson's disease (PD) affects neurons in the part of the brain that controls muscle movement. PD belongs to a group of conditions called motor system disorders. These disorders are categorized by the loss of neurons that make dopamine (chemical that sends signals to create movement). These cells either die or do not work properly. Symptoms of PD include:
-tremors or trembling in hands, arms, legs, jaw, and face -stiffness of the limbs and trunk -movement slows -posture instable, impaired balance and coordination
Other symptoms may include:
-depression and other emotional changes -difficulty in swallowing -chewing -speaking -urinary problems or constipation -skin problems -disrupted sleep cycle
These symptoms cause one to have trouble walking, talking and interfere with many other daily activities. Though it usually starts to affect people over 50 symptoms may start earlier. Early symptoms are subtle but progress over time, varying between patients.
