About Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s is a progressive, degenerative condition. The pace of its progress varies from one person to the next.

While many believe Parkinson’s mainly affects the elderly, there’s an increasing number of people with Young Onset Parkinson’s. This means they’re diagnosed before the age of 60.

What causes Parkinson’s?

Although the cause of Parkinson’s is unknown, it’s connected with a lack of the neurotransmitter dopamine. This is a chemical in the brain which helps translate messages to different parts of the body so that they work properly.

By the time symptoms of Parkinson's have begun to show, a person is likely to have lost approximately 80% of their dopamine producing brain cells.

What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s?

The range of symptoms traditionally associated with Parkinson’s are slowness, stiffness and tremor.

However it can also affect the functioning of bladder and bowel, balance, speech, cognitive abilities and mood.

What’s the treatment for Parkinson’s?

The main treatment is medication. There is a surgical procedure known as deep brain stimulation which involves the insertion of a “brain pacemaker” which stimulates a part of the brain.

As with all treatments and surgical procedures there are risks and side effects, some of which can be quite difficult in themselves.

Is there a cure for Parkinson’s?

There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s. However, there is considerable amount of research going on worldwide to try to find a way of stopping its progress, if not reversing its impact.

Fortunately, there are lots of things you can do to ease symptoms and allow you to live a more fulfilling and rewarding life if you’re living with Parkinson’s.

Our charity is dedicated to funding activities, projects, and initiatives that enhance the quality of life of people living with Parkinson’s through sports, arts, and creativity.