Condition: Parkinsons Disease

Parkinson’s Disease is a degenerative disease that primarily affects motor function. Symptoms are caused by a breakdown of the central nervous system; the system responsible for communicating commands from the brain to the muscles.

The breakdown is caused by a deficiency of a substance called dopamine in the brain. Although there is no cure, medications which raise dopamine levels alleviate symptoms of Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s disease primarily affects older individuals and has been documented since ancient times.

The main causes are certain genetic mutations and exposure to toxins. Common complaints leading to the diagnosis of Parkinson’s include tremors (particularly of the hand), stiff muscles and difficulty coordinating movement.