What Is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects movement and coordination. It happens when brain cells that make dopamine—a chemical that helps control movement—stop working or die. That’s why Parkinson’s is known as a “movement disorder.” Its symptoms include shaking (tremors), stiffness, slow movement, and problems with balance.
Doctors believe a mix of genetic and environmental factors causes Parkinson’s.
- Environmental risks: Exposure to pesticides or head injuries may increase risk, but most cases have no known cause.
- Genetics: While specific mutations can make Parkinson’s more likely, most people diagnosed do not have a family history.
Age is the most significant risk factor.
Most people are diagnosed around age 60, but it can affect younger adults too—sometimes as early as age 40.
How Common Is Parkinson’s?
- Nearly one million Americans and ten million people worldwide live with Parkinson’s.
- It is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s.
- Men are 1.5 times more likely to have Parkinson’s than women.
Famous people living with Parkinson’s:
- Michael J. Fox
- Linda Ronstadt
- Muhammad Ali
- Alan Alda
Is There Treatment for Parkinson’s?
Yes! While there’s no cure, there are many ways to manage the condition:
- Medications can reduce tremors and movement problems.
- Surgery, such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) or focused ultrasound, may help with severe symptoms.
- Lifestyle choices, including exercise and therapy, are crucial to staying active and engaged.
Ongoing advances mean that people with Parkinson’s can often enjoy fulfilling, independent lives for many years.
Living with Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s is not a death sentence. The disease itself doesn’t directly shorten your life, but it does increase risks for things like falls, which can lead to complications. With good medical care, lifestyle management, and the right support, many people with Parkinson’s have life spans similar to people without the disease.
Find Out More—and Get Local Help
If you or a loved one may be facing Parkinson’s, you are not alone. Great organizations are supporting Minnesotans with Parkinson’s, including The Michael J. Fox Foundation and Parkinson’s Foundation Minnesota.
Complimentary Consultation
Call us anytime at 952-983-0412.
Our Parkinson’s care consultants will listen to your situation and provide personalized advice, resources, and support for your next steps.
