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Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease is a progressive brain condition where cells that make dopamine are lost, leading to tremor, stiffness and slow movement. Symptoms develop gradually over years.
Causes & risk factors
- Loss of dopamine-producing brain cells (cause often unknown)
- Older age
- Genetic factors in some families
- Possible environmental exposures
- More common in men
Common symptoms
- Tremor, often in a hand at rest
- Slowness of movement
- Muscle stiffness
- Balance problems and shuffling walk
- Small, cramped handwriting
- Soft or slurred speech
- Constipation
Tests & diagnosis
- Clinical diagnosis (history and exam)
- MRI brain (to exclude other causes)
- DaTscan (dopamine imaging)
- Response to Parkinson medicine
Treatment & management
- Medicines that boost or mimic dopamine to ease symptoms
- Physiotherapy for movement, balance and posture
- Speech and occupational therapy
- Regular exercise to maintain mobility
- Advanced options such as deep brain stimulation in selected cases
When to see a doctor urgently
- A new tremor, stiffness or slowness of movement
- Falls, freezing when walking or worsening balance
- Difficulty swallowing or choking
- Sudden confusion, hallucinations or a rapid change in symptoms
Frequently asked questions
Is Parkinson's disease fatal?
Parkinson's itself is not usually a direct cause of death, and treatment can control symptoms for many years. It is a long-term condition that needs ongoing care as it progresses.
Does everyone with a tremor have Parkinson’s?
No. Many tremors are due to other causes, such as essential tremor or anxiety. A Parkinson tremor is typically most noticeable at rest. A doctor can tell them apart.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.