Clinical Definition

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive motor system disorder. The specific etiology is not known. Symptoms are associated with progressive demise of dopamine producing neurons in the brain. Although it can develop earlier, the onset of the disease is generally after 50 years of age. It is characterized by bradykinesia, postural instability, rigidity and tremors.

In Our Own Words

Parkinson’s disease is a neurological condition, which usually affects people over the age of 50. It usually causes both motor and non-motor symptoms. Although the cause is not known, symptoms appear to be related to a decrease in certain brain cells, which produce the chemical dopamine. The condition is progressive, which means the symptoms get worse overtime. Although there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, it’s an active area of research, and there are treatments to improve quality of life and functioning.