“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Idiopathic parkinsonism, also known as Parkinson's disease, is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. It occurs when the neurons in the brain that produce dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement, become damaged or die.
The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is not yet known, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Symptoms typically develop gradually over time and can include:
There is no cure for Parkinson's disease, but there are medications that can help manage symptoms. Treatment may also include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and exercise. In some cases, surgery may be an option. The goal of treatment is to improve quality of life and maintain function for as long as possible.