What is Parkinson's Disease?

Summary

Dr. Rachel Dolan, Vice President of Medical Communications at the Michael J. Fox Foundation, provides an insightful explanation of Parkinson's Disease (PD). She outlines how PD affects 600,000 to 1 million people in the U.S., highlighting its symptoms like tremor, stiffness, and balance problems. The cause of PD remains unclear, with a mix of genetic and environmental factors likely contributing. While current treatments ease symptoms, they don't slow the disease's progression. Dr. Dolan emphasizes the importance of personalized care and the role of movement disorder specialists in improving patient outcomes. The Foundation remains committed to advancing research and finding a cure.

Takeaways

• 😀 Parkinson's disease (PD) affects 600,000 to 1 million people in the United States, with 60,000 new diagnoses each year.
• 😀 Age is a primary risk factor for Parkinson's, with the average diagnosis age being 60, but younger people can also be affected.
• 😀 Parkinson's disease is diagnosed through medical history and physical examination, focusing on motor symptoms like tremor, stiffness, and slowness of movement.
• 😀 While motor symptoms like tremor are common, Parkinson's can also cause issues with walking, balance, and non-motor symptoms such as constipation, sleep problems, and cognitive changes.
• 😀 Parkinson's is a unique disease, as every patient experiences a different combination of symptoms and progression.
• 😀 Parkinson's results from the death of brain cells that produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter that affects movement, motivation, and reward.
• 😀 The exact cause of Parkinson's is not well understood but is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
• 😀 Genetic mutations can increase the risk of Parkinson's, but most cases are not directly linked to genetics.
• 😀 Currently, there are no medications to slow or stop the progression of Parkinson's, but treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
• 😀 It is crucial for patients to work with movement disorder specialists to tailor treatment plans and access the latest research, clinical trials, and therapies.
• 😀 The Michael J. Fox Foundation's mission is to eradicate Parkinson's disease, and there is hope in ongoing research that may lead to breakthroughs in treatment and possibly a cure.

Q & A

What is Parkinson's disease (PD), and how common is it?

Parkinson's disease is a common brain disease that affects movement. In the United States, it is estimated that 600,000 to 1 million people live with Parkinson's, and about 60,000 people are diagnosed each year. It is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, following Alzheimer's.

At what age is Parkinson's typically diagnosed, and are there exceptions?

The average age of diagnosis for Parkinson's disease is 60, and the risk of developing it increases with age. However, it can also occur in younger individuals, with some people being diagnosed in their 40s or even younger.

How do doctors diagnose Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease is diagnosed through a medical history and physical examination. Doctors look for two of the three classic motor symptoms: resting tremor, stiffness, and slowness of movement. There are no specific lab tests for diagnosing PD.

What are the key symptoms of Parkinson's disease beyond motor issues?

While motor symptoms like tremors are common, people with Parkinson's disease may also experience non-motor symptoms, including walking and balance problems, constipation, sleep issues, cognitive changes, and depression. Some individuals may lose their sense of smell before the motor symptoms appear.

What is the underlying cause of Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease occurs when brain cells that produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter crucial for movement and motivation, die or stop working. The exact cause of this is not well understood, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to contribute to the disease.

What role do genetic and environmental factors play in Parkinson's disease?

Genetic mutations can increase the risk of Parkinson's disease, but they account for only a small portion of cases. Environmental factors such as exposure to pesticides and head injuries may also increase the risk, but most cases do not have a clear, identifiable cause.

Can Parkinson's disease be cured or its progression stopped?

Currently, there is no cure for Parkinson's disease, and available treatments cannot slow or stop its progression. However, medications and surgical treatments can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

What types of treatment are available for Parkinson's disease?

Treatment for Parkinson's disease includes medications that manage symptoms and, in some cases, surgical procedures. Treatment plans need to be individualized based on each patient's symptoms, and working with a doctor is essential to finding the best approach.

Why is it important to consult a movement disorder specialist for Parkinson's disease?

Consulting a movement disorder specialist is important because these experts are specifically trained to manage Parkinson's disease. They can help optimize treatment, keep patients informed about the latest research and clinical trials, and guide the development of a personalized care plan.

What are some lifestyle recommendations for people with Parkinson's disease?

People with Parkinson's disease are encouraged to eat well, exercise regularly, and stay connected to others to improve their overall well-being. The Michael J. Fox Foundation offers a Parkinson's 360 toolkit to provide additional resources for managing life with the disease.