Understanding Parkinson's DiseaseParkinson’s disease is caused by a problem with a small area of your brain. This part of the brain helps control your movement and balance. For reasons that are not yet clear, cells in this part of the brain stop working.
Common Symptoms of Parkinson's DiseaseParkinson’s disease symptoms vary from person to person. Some people may have many severe symptoms, while others have only a few mild ones. Symptoms change over time—different symptoms may occur at different stages, and symptoms may get worse as the disease progresses.
Parkinson’s Disease: Understanding Your MedicationsYour doctor may prescribe one or more medications for you, depending on many factors. These include your age, the stage of the disease, and the severity of your symptoms. Consult this chart, which shows the types of medication and how they help.
Surgery for Parkinson's DiseaseIf your symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are severe and medications don’t help, surgery may be suggested. Surgery is not a cure. It may help relieve some of the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, mainly tremor and rigidity.
Exercises You Can Do for Parkinson's DiseaseHere are exercises that can help strengthen your muscles and keep them loose and flexible. Ask your doctor whether they’re right for you. Your doctor or physical therapist may also suggest other exercises.
Parkinson’s Disease: Managing Day to DayParkinson’s disease can make daily life harder. But certain adjustments and devices can help you stay independent and active. The following tips suggest ways to handle problems with some daily activities.
Getting Around with Parkinson's DiseaseParkinson’s disease affects muscle control, coordination, and balance, making it harder to get around. Here are some tips to help make these types of movement easier for you.
Parkinson’s Disease: Coping with Your EmotionsParkinson’s disease can cause changes that make you feel tired, cranky, or depressed. Your health care team may be able to help you or refer you to someone who can. Friends, family, and community groups can also offer support.
Out-Foxing Parkinson's DiseaseActor Michael Fox has Parkinson's disease, a chronic and progressive illness in which certain nerve cells, or neurons, die or become impaired. Early symptoms are subtle and occur gradually. More than 1 million Americans have Parkinson's, and many wind up unable to walk, talk or care for themselves.