2.1
Parkinson's is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that damages the brain over many years. It is caused by a loss of the cells in the brain that produce dopamine, which helps to control and coordinate body movements. People with Parkinson's classically present with the symptoms and signs described as 'parkinsonism': these include bradykinesia (slow movements), rigidity, rest tremor (shaking) and postural instability (loss of balance). In later stages of Parkinson's, other symptoms sometimes described as the 'non-motor' manifestations of Parkinson's such as depression, cognitive impairment, dementia and autonomic disturbances may be prominent. The condition may progress to cause significant impairments, adversely affecting quality of life and, indirectly, the quality of life of family and carers.
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