Parkinson’s disease is the onset of nerve cell degeneration in the midbrain, the portion responsible for controlling the body mechanics and movements. It is usually common in older people however there have been reported cases in young adults. The symptoms develop slowly and gradually, the first signs are stiffness or numbness in the limb. Other signs include trembling of the hands and even feet at rest. These tremors get intense the cells further degenerate and the muscles become stiffer, body movements began to slow down and overall body coordination slows down. In the later stages of the disease, psychological and cognitive issues such as depression and emotional problems increase. The median age for the onset of Parkinson’s on between 50 and 65, whereby a 1% population of the age group is under its grip. Moreover, men are at a greater degree of risk than women.
Causes of Parkinson’s disease
There is considerable controversy surrounding the possibility of a genetic cause of Parkinson’s disease. In a small number of families, specific genetic abnormalities leading to the illness have been identified. However, the vast majority of people with Parkinson’s disease do not have one of these identified genetic abnormalities.
Many studies also point to the presence of environmental toxins and their interaction with the human body as a possible cause of Parkinson’s. These toxins include manganese, carbon monoxide, carbon disulfide and a number of other pesticides.
Also, it is believed that oxidative stress can cause Parkinson’s disease. Oxidation is a process in which free radicals (unstable molecules lacking one electron), in an attempt to replace the missing electron, react with other molecules (such as iron). Free radicals are normally formed in the brain and body, but usually, the brain and body have mechanisms to get rid of them.
