Guide to Parkinson's Disease

In the United States, at least 500,000 people have Parkinson's disease, though the estimate may be higher, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). This neurological condition occurs when the cells in the brain that make the neurotransmitter dopamine become destroyed. As a result, the loss of dopamine affects signals being sent by the brain, which causes movement problems. The hallmark symptoms of Parkinson's disease include stiffness of the trunk and limbs, tremors, impaired balance and slowed movement. To control their symptoms, patients may use medications that alter dopamine levels, such as levadopa. Here at Bright Hub, you can find articles on alternative treatments and new advances that can help patients with this neurological condition.

Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons/Chris 73, http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:DA-loops_in_PD.jpg