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Parkinson's disease is a movement disorder caused by a shortage of a chemical called L-DOPA which is further converted in to dopamine in the brain. |
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Parkinson's disease is caused by the loss of brain cells that produce a chemical called dopamine, resulting in low levels of the chemical in your brain. |
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Causes of Parkinson's disease |
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The exact reasons why people develop Parkinson's disease aren't fully understood at present, but inherited factors seem to have a role. |
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A family history is more common in early-onset Parkinson's disease. |
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Certain chemicals in the environment that might be harmful to the brain, called neurotoxins, have been linked to Parkinson's disease. |
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It's possible that people who are exposed to more of these neurotoxins are more likely to develop the condition. |
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Symptoms of Parkinson's disease |
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Shaking (muscle tremor) is usually one of the first symptoms and affects most people with Parkinson's disease. |
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Stiffness (rigidity), which makes your limbs feel difficult to move. |
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Slow movement or inabilities to move are common in people with Parkinson's disease. People with Parkinson's disease often walk with a slow shuffle. |
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problems with posture and balance - you may have falls and have difficulty turning in bed or getting out of a chair |
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speech changes - your speech may become quiet or rapid, making it hard for others to understand you |
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loss of facial expression - you may smile less, frown more and blink slowly |
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small handwriting |
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