National
Parkinson Foundation
Orange County Chapter
The Parkinson's
Center, Hoag Hospital,
One Hoag Drive,
Newport Beach, CA 92658
Phone: 1-949-764-6998 • Email: info@npfocc.org
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About Parkinson's DiseaseParkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic neurological condition. It is a slowly progressive disease that affects a small area of cells in the mid-brain known as the substantia nigra. Gradual degeneration of these cells causes a reduction in a vital chemical known as dopamine. This decrease in dopamine can produce one or more of the classic signs of Parkinson's disease: resting tremors on one side of the body; generalized slowness of movement (bradykinesia); stiffness of limbs (rigidity); and gait or balance problems. There are many more symptoms that can possibly affect a patient, including changes in handwriting, gait, facial expressions, speech, and more. Few patients experience all of these symptoms, and some may experience other signs. It is critical to stress that both the nature and severity of symptoms vary tremendously from one patient to another. A patient should not assume he or she will experience all symptoms described, since this rarely is the case. It is estimated that up to 1,500,000 Americans are affected, more persons than those suffering from Multiple Sclerosis and Muscular Dystrophy combined. Although 15% of patients are diagnosed before age 50, PD is generally considered a disease which targets older adults. Parkinson's disease affects one of every 100 persons over the age of 60. Thanks to public health strides and healthier lifestyle choices, many Americans now live well into their eighties, adding to the impression that the incidence of Parkinson's disease is increasing. While there is, as yet no cure for this condition, progressive treatments allow many patients to maintain a high level of function throughout their lifetimes. These Links Provide Additional Information:
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