What is Parkinson's

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s Disease (Parkinson’s) is a progressive neurological disorder, and is classified as a Movement Disorder, as it primarily affects movement. It is variable in its progression, i.e. some people progress more slowly than others, and the symptoms can be effectively controlled with medication for many years. Parkinson’s disease is caused by a loss of a chemical called dopamine. We all lose some of this chemical as we get older, however, it is only when we have lost about 80% of our dopamine we start to have symptoms. So people with Parkinson’s have lost this chemical at a faster rate than others.

Although Parkinson’s is a movement disorder, there are both motor and non-motor symptoms associated with it.

At What Age Does Parkinson’s Disease Occur?

Parkinson’s is most commonly diagnosed in a person’s 60’s. It can however also affect younger people. People presenting with Parkinson’s between 40-60 years old are said to have Early Onset Parkinson’s, those between 21-40 years old are generally described as having Young Onset Parkinson’s, while those with symptoms occurring before the age of 20 are described as having Juvenile Parkinsonism.

How Common is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s is the second most common neurodegenerative condition after Alzheimer’s. The incidence is 1-2:1000 of the general population and 1:100 of the over 80’s, therefore estimating that there are approximately 18,000 people living with Parkinson’s in Ireland.

Acknowledgements

Parkinson’s Ireland would like to thank Brian Magennis, RGN, Parkinson’s Disease Nurse Specialist at The Dublin Neurological Institute at The Mater Hospital, Dublin, for endorsing this Information Leaflet.

DISCLAIMER – The information on these pages is not intended to be taken as advice. No changes to your treatment should be made without prior consultation with your doctor or allied health professional.

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