Parkinson's disease is a degenerative disease of the

brain. It affects parts of the brain that are

associated with normal movement and balance.

This disease is caused by

the loss of brain cells that

produce dopamine. The

area affected is called the

substantia nigra.

Dopamine is a

neurotransmitter or a

chemical messenger that

carries signals between

the neurons in the brain.

Dopamine enables

smooth, coordinated

movements.

The symptoms

appear only when

around 80 per cent

of the dopamine

producing cells in

the brain are

destroyed. The

earliest symptom is

a fine tremor of

hands while at rest.

Exactly what causes Parkinson’s disease is unclear.

Most experts think that a combination of genetic

and environmental factors is responsible.

The classic symptoms of this condition

are a tremor or shaking of the hand or

other limbs while at rest. Another

classic symptom is rigidity and

increased tone in the body's muscles.

The movements of the body are slowed

(this is termed bradykinesia) and the

patient often finds difficulty in

maintaining balance.

The problems are usually at the beginning of a new activity like

getting up and walking. Once they begin the patients usually

moves too fast, ending up almost running or out of control.

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