- Contents
- Introduction
- What is depression?
- Signs and Symptoms of Depression
- What is Parkinson's disease?
- How are depression and Parkinson's disease linked?
- How is depression treated in people who have Parkinson's disease?
- For More Information on Depression
- For More Information on Parkinson's Disease
- Citations
- Reprints
What is Parkinson's disease?
Parkinson's disease is a chronic disorder that worsens over time and results in the loss of brain cells that produce dopamine, a chemical messenger that controls movement. Parkinson's disease usually affects people over age 50. The main symptoms of Parkinson's disease are:
- Tremor, or shaking, in the hands, arms, legs, jaw, and face
- Rigidity, or stiffness, of the arms, legs, and torso
- Slowness of movement
- Impaired balance and coordination.
Parkinson's can also affect thinking and emotions. At present, there is no way to predict or prevent Parkinson's disease.
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