Parkinson's disease
About Parkinson's disease
A brain disease that results in tremor (shaking of the hand), stiff muscles, and difficulty initiating movement. The problem results from deterioration of a part of the brain called the `substantia nigra,` where the brain hormone dopamine is made. Besides movement problems many patients experience depression, blandness of facial expression, and memory loss.Symptoms
Stiff muscles, shuffling walk, slow movements, difficulty initiating movement, a need to walk quickly to maintain balance, a feeling of frozen joints when you have not been moving, shaking or bobbing of the head or shaking of the hand, loss of facial expression, a tremulous voice, loss of fine motor skills, frequent falls, decline in intellectual function, constipation.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis can be made without additional tests. Response to treatment can confirm the diagnosis. A CT scan of the brain may be done to check for other causes of symptoms.Common tests: CT Scan, MRI.
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
There is no known cure. Medications can relieve or improve symptoms. Several different medications are available. The most commonly used medicine is carbidopa/levodopa (Sinemet). Some cases are treated with a surgically implanted brain stimulator. For more information contact: American Parkinson Disease Association: (800)223-2732 National Parkinson Foundation, Inc.: (800) 327-4545 Parkinson's Disease Foundation: (800)457-6676Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Neurology · Family Practice
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson's disease.