Every hour in America, 10 people learn they have Parkinson's disease. Behind each diagnosis is a person facing an uncertain future and a family preparing for change. This April marks Parkinson's Awareness Month, highlighting a condition that affects nearly one million Americans. And with experts projecting this number will grow to 1.2 million by 2030 — a 50% increase — it underscores the urgent need for education, research, and support.

Whether you're concerned about symptoms, caring for a loved one, or simply want to be more informed, learning the basics about Parkinson's can help you recognize warning signs, seek appropriate care, and support those affected by this challenging disease. 

What is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's disease affects the brain cells producing dopamine, a chemical that helps control movement. When these cells break down, the brain can't send proper signals to muscles, leading to tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. By the time symptoms appear, most people with Parkinson's have already lost 60-80% of these dopamine-producing cells in an area of the brain called the substantia nigra. 

The disease typically develops slowly over several years, with mild symptoms gradually worsening. While Parkinson's isn't fatal, complications from the disease can significantly impact quality of life and contribute to serious health issues. 

Types of Parkinson's Disease

Not all Parkinson's cases are the same. Depending on timing, causes, and symptoms, the disease can take different forms:

• Idiopathic Parkinson's — The most common type with no known cause.
• Early-onset Parkinson's — Appearing in people under 50.
• Vascular Parkinsonism — Caused by small strokes in brain regions controlling movement.
• Drug-induced Parkinsonism — Symptoms caused by certain medications.
• Multiple System Atrophy — A rare condition with similar symptoms affecting multiple body systems.

Recognizing the Symptoms

When Parkinson's develops, common symptoms can include:

• Tremor (shaking) that usually begins in the hand or fingers when at rest
• Muscle stiffness making everyday tasks difficult
• Slow movement
• Poor balance and coordination problems
• Changes in speech and writing  

Non-movement symptoms are equally important to recognize. Many people experience sleep disruptions, memory issues, and thinking changes. Depression and anxiety commonly accompany Parkinson's, and a reduced sense of smell often occurs years before movement symptoms appear.

Who's at Higher Risk?

While anyone can develop Parkinson's, certain factors increase risk:

• Age (the disease typically develops after 60)
• Family history of Parkinson's
• Being male (men are 1.5 times more likely to develop Parkinson's)
• Previous head injuries
• Exposure to certain pesticides and industrial chemicals

Getting Diagnosed

No single test confirms Parkinson's disease. Instead, doctors review medical history, perform physical and neurological exams, and sometimes order brain scans to rule out other conditions. They may observe responses to Parkinson's medication and monitor symptoms over time. Early diagnosis allows for better symptom management and improved quality of life, so reporting concerning symptoms to your doctor promptly is crucial.

Treatment Options

While there's no cure for Parkinson's, several treatments help manage symptoms:

• Medications like levodopa to increase dopamine levels
• Deep brain stimulation
• Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
• Regular exercise to improve balance, flexibility, and overall well-being
• Support services including counseling, support groups, and educational resources

Treatment plans are customized to each person's symptoms, age, and overall health. What works for one person may not work for another, and medications often need adjustment over time.

Living with Parkinson's

Daily life with Parkinson's requires adaptation, but many people maintain active, fulfilling lives for years after diagnosis. Home safety modifications help prevent falls, while regular exercise routines maintain strength and mobility. Support groups connect people with similar experiences, and specialized tools help overcome challenges with tremors.

Working with care professionals as the condition progresses helps affected individuals maintain independence longer. While managing current symptoms is important, many also find hope in new medical advances. Scientists continue to make strides in Parkinson's research, focusing on several promising areas. These include finding biomarkers for earlier diagnosis, developing treatments that might slow disease progression, testing gene therapies, and exploring stem cell treatments.

Growing Healthy with AltaMed

No matter your health challenges, AltaMed is here to help. From general medicine to specialty care, dentistry, and behavioral health services, you’ll find everything you need close to home. Want to learn more? Call us at (888) 499-9303 or get started online.