Causes Of Parkinson's Disease

One common disease that affects the nervous system in the human body is Parkinson’s Disease. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that causes neurons in the brain to deteriorate. These neurons, called dopamine neurons, produce a neurotransmitter called dopamine, which regulates and controls movement in the human body, and resides in an area of the brain called the substantia nirga. When the amount of dopamine reduces, neurons are lost; when this happens, the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease make their early visits (Giles).

The most recognizable sign of Parkinson’s is an abnormal tremor or shaking, of the limbs, fingers, hands, or lips. As the victim’s condition advances, the tremor worsens and becomes more noticeable. Other

Research has shown about ten to fifteen percent of Parkinson’s cases are thought to be genetic, while the other eighty-five to ninety percent are unknown. Research also proves that one’s risk of Parkinson’s increases when they have a first-degree relative with the condition, though a direct inheritance is rare (“Genetics and Parkinson’s Disease”). Some possible environmental factors include exposure to chemicals or toxins, such as insecticides and herbicides; a synthetic neurotoxin known as MPTP; and head trauma caused by an injury (“Environmental Factors and

The most important medical treatment for Parkinson’s disease is Carbidopa-Levodopa, which is a combination of two different drugs; Carbidopa is added to reduce nausea, which Levodopa often causes when taken by itself. The drug Levodopa is absorbed by blood from the small intestines and travels to the brain, where it converts into dopamine and stays in the neurons until needed (“Carbidopa-Levodopa”). Recommended exercises for victims with Parkinson’s include stretching, yoga, Pilates, and strengthening exercises (“Exercise”). Often used as a last resort, surgical treatments are available those whose Parkinson’s related symptoms cannot be cured through medicine. One of the these treatments is called Deep Brain Stimulation, a neurosurgical procedure used to treat symptoms such as tremor, stiffness, and difficulties walking. During this procedure, a device known as a neurostimulator is transplanted into the brain to distribute electrical stimulation in certain areas, blocking the nerve signals that cause tremor and other symptoms in Parkinson’s victims (“Deep Brain