Parkinson’s disease

• What type of disease is Parkinson's Disease?

  Progressive disease of the nervous system
• What are the main symptoms of Parkinson's Disease?

  Tremor, stiff muscles, slow movement
• Who does Parkinson's Disease mostly affect?

  Middle-aged and elderly people
• What brain area is associated with Parkinson's Disease?

  Degeneration of the basal ganglia
• What neurotransmitter is deficient in Parkinson's Disease?

  Dopamine
• Does Parkinson's Disease directly cause death?

  No, but it increases vulnerability to infections
• What are the other symptoms of Parkinson's Disease?

  • Depression and anxiety
  • Loss of sense of smell (anosmia)
  • Problems sleeping (insomnia)
  • Memory problems
• What role do genetic factors play in Parkinson's Disease?

  They increase risk but are unclear
• Can faulty genes be inherited in Parkinson's Disease?

  Yes, but it's rare
• What environmental factors may contribute to Parkinson's Disease?

  Pesticides, herbicides, pollution
• Is the evidence linking environmental factors to Parkinson's Disease conclusive?

  No, it is inconclusive
• What is the basis for diagnosing Parkinson's Disease?

  Symptoms, medical history, physical examination
• Who might a doctor refer a patient to if Parkinson's is suspected?

  A neurologist or geriatrician
• What types of scans may be used in diagnosing Parkinson's Disease?

  Special brain scans like SPECT
• What treatments are available for Parkinson's Disease?

  • Supportive therapies (e.g., physiotherapy)
  • Medication (e.g., dopamine)
  • Surgery (for some people)
  • Deep brain stimulation (DBS)
• What symptoms can Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) treat?

  Tremor, rigidity, stiffness, slowed movement