Parkinson's Disease Treatment, Stages, Symptoms and Causes

Parkinson's disease is a chronic condition that causes shaking and tremors in the limbs. This condition can seriously impair one's ability to function in everyday activities.

Causes

• According to the Mayo Clinic website, Parkinson's disease is caused by a deficiency of dopamine in the brain. This chemical acts as a chemical messenger to the limbs.

Stages

• This condition usually begins with a slight tremor in the hands. As it progresses, the tremors will become more frequent and severe. In the later stages of Parkinson's disease, speech changes, loss of unconscious movements such as blinking will cease, and dementia may occur.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of Parkinson's disease include tremors, slowed motion, impaired balance and posture, muscles become rigid, changes in speech, and dementia.

Treatment

• Treatment for this condition includes medications and physical therapy. The medications will assist the patient by lessening the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, and the therapy will help control the symptoms when they occur. In some cases, surgery that will stimulate the brain is performed.

Complications

• Parkinson's disease can cause complications such as sleeping problems, urinary difficulties, sexual dysfunction, depression, constipation, and trouble swallowing and chewing.