Parkinson's Disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, Parkinson's is a result of a loss of
nerve cells in a part of the brain known as the substantia nigra. These cells produce a chemical called dopamine which
helps control muscle movement.
"Progressive" means that the signs and symptoms of the disease become more pronounced
as time passes, usually the disease progresses slowly over many years. The symptoms include trembling, muscle rigidity, problems with balance,
slowed movements and difficulty walking. Other symptoms can include psychiatric problems such as depression and dementia. Eventually the disease progresses to cause
significant disability and handicap. This has an adverse affect on the person's family and carers.
The NHS health encyclopedia estimates that Parkinson's affects 120,000 people in the UK with 10,000 people being diagnosed each year.
Parkinson's usually affects people over the age of 50.
