So what causes Parkinson's?

Parkinson's stems from the loss of neurons that produce dopamine in the brain's ‘’substantia nigra’’ region.

What is "dopamine"? How does it affect us?

Dopamine, often referred to as the "happiness hormone" in media and popular culture, is a vital chemical naturally present in our bodies. Additionally known as the "motivation molecule," dopamine serves as a crucial hormone driving our motivation. It acts as a messenger, facilitating communication among nerve cells in our brain, and plays a pivotal role in various functions including memory, movement, mood regulation, attention, pleasure, and satisfaction. For example, the sense of accomplishment after completing a task can be attributed to the increase in dopamine secretion in the brain.

Alterations in dopamine levels significantly influence our well-being. Both excessive and deficient levels can lead to adverse effects. Maintaining the right balance of dopamine is crucial for overall physical and mental health. Low dopamine levels may result in decreased motivation, feelings of hopelessness, coping difficulties with stress, distraction, focus problems, and anxiety disorders. Moreover, they are associated with mental illnesses such as Parkinson's disease, depression, schizophrenia, and psychosis. Conversely, elevated dopamine levels are linked to increased competitiveness, aggression, and poor impulse control, potentially leading to behaviors like overeating, addiction, and gambling.

Parkinson's disease, characterized by a decrease in dopamine levels, is named after English physician James Parkinson, who first described it in 1817. This neurodegenerative disorder primarily stems from the decline or damage of dopamine-secreting cells in the brain, often associated with aging. However, factors such as head trauma, prolonged exposure to heavy metals like mercury and lead, and certain medications can also contribute to its development. The majority of Parkinson's cases are idiopathic, with the cause unknown, while some are attributed to specific factors, termed secondary Parkinson's.

The frequency and severity of Parkinson's symptoms tend to increase with age. Individuals in their 60s and beyond are more susceptible, with the disease being ten times more prevalent in this age group and more frequently in their 70s compared to those in their 50s. The progression of symptoms varies depending on age, suggesting that if we were to live to 120 years old, many of us would likely experience Parkinson's symptoms.

How is Parkinson's Diagnosed?

Parkinson's disease is primarily diagnosed based on clinical findings. As dopamine levels decrease, symptoms of Parkinson's become more apparent. These symptoms include resting tremors, typically in one hand, resembling a "counting money" gesture, slowness in movement, reduced arm swing while walking, stooped posture, reduced facial expressions leading to a "mask-like" appearance, small shuffling steps, and a tendency to lean forward while walking. Recognizing these symptoms prompts patients to seek consultation with a neurologist.

Initial treatment for Parkinson's disease involves medication to boost dopamine levels. Many patients respond well to drug therapy, with approximately 80-85% experiencing significant relief initially, enabling them to maintain a good quality of life for an extended period. However, if medication fails to provide relief despite adjustments in dosage and frequency, or the hours of improvement provided by the drug treatment gradually decrease, and the patients spend a significant part of the day rigid, or if patients experience adverse effects such as restlessness, agitation, or involuntary movements, surgical intervention may be considered. Deep brain stimulation is a surgical option for patients who have reached a therapeutic dead-end with medication.

A common question arises: "Can Parkinson's be prevented or mitigated?" Currently, no definitive method exists to prevent or entirely shield against Parkinson's disease. However, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, including dietary modifications, regular exercise, and engaging in mentally stimulating activities, can help alleviate symptoms and enhance overall quality of life. It's essential to embrace the journey of life with continuous effort, much like riding a bicycle—keep pedaling forward.

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