What it is:

  • Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that causes involuntary movements such as tremor, stiffness. It also leads to trouble in walking, balance and coordination.
  • Most people affected are about 60 years old.
  • Symptoms become more severe over time
    • Behavioral changes 
    • Sleep problems 
    • Depression 
    • Loss of memory 
    • Fatigue 

 

Causes:

  • Nerve cells in brain that controls movement are impaired/dies, less dopamine
  • Also lose nerve ending that produce norepinephrine (chemical messenger that controls many functions such as heart rate/blood pressure                
  • Scientists do not know why these cells die 

 

Source: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/parkinsons-disease