Do you know someone who has been diagnosed with Parkinsonism? Or are you curious about how it affects people and what treatment is available? Knowing more about this medical condition can help you better understand and provide support for those around you who are dealing with it. Parkinsonism is a disorder that affects the nervous system and can cause movement and coordination issues. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of this disorder, so you can feel informed and empowered to find solutions for individuals dealing with Parkinsonism.
What Is Parkinsonism?
Parkinsonism refers to a group of neurological disorders that affect the movement of the body. It is a condition that degrades the motor skills of an individual due to degeneration of cells in the substantia nigra, a part of the midbrain. This leads to a decrease in the production of dopamine. As a result, the person starts to experience symptoms of difficulty in initiating and maintaining movement.
Parkinsonism has several key characteristics including difficulty with performing rapid movements, slow movements, limb and trunk stiffness, trembling, impaired coordination, and altered speech. In later stages, individuals suffering from Parkinson’s disease may experience disturbances in thinking, balance issues, and impaired gait.
- Tremor
- Stiffness in muscles
- Slowness of movement
- Impaired coordination
- Altered speech
- Balance issues
We hope that this article has given you a basic understanding of what Parkinsonism is and how to cope with the condition if you or someone you know is affected by it. Knowledge is the most powerful tool for living with Parkinsonism, so ensure that you stay informed about the latest treatments and research and you keep communicating with your healthcare team.