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Parkinson Disease

A progressive neurodegenerative disorder driven by loss of dopamine neurons, producing the classic triad of tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Parkinson Disease?

Parkinson disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer disease, with a prevalence rising sharply after age 60. It is defined by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and the presence of alpha-synuclein-containing Lewy bodies.

Diagnosis is clinical, based on the MDS criteria requiring bradykinesia plus rest tremor or rigidity, and supported by a clear response to dopaminergic therapy and progressive course. Imaging (DaTscan) and genetic testing are reserved for atypical cases.

Beyond motor features, non-motor symptoms (REM sleep behavior disorder, constipation, hyposmia, depression, orthostatic hypotension, cognitive decline) often precede motor onset and substantially affect quality of life.

Management is individualized and lifelong, aiming to preserve function while minimizing long-term motor complications.

Symptoms

Resting tremor, typically unilateral at onset
Bradykinesia with slow, small movements and reduced arm swing
Rigidity with cogwheel or lead-pipe features
Postural instability with stooped posture and shuffling gait
Hypomimia, soft speech, and micrographia
Sleep disturbance, constipation, anosmia, and depressive symptoms

Risk Factors

Advancing age and male sex
Family history and monogenic forms (LRRK2, GBA, PARK7)
Pesticide and heavy metal exposure
Rural living and well-water consumption
Prior traumatic brain injury
REM sleep behavior disorder and severe constipation as prodromal markers

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • New resting tremor, bradykinesia, or rigidity
  • Worsening motor fluctuations or freezing of gait
  • Non-motor complications such as hallucinations, cognitive decline, or severe orthostatic hypotension

Treatment Methods

01
Levodopa combined with a peripheral decarboxylase inhibitor as the cornerstone of motor therapy
02
Dopamine agonists (pramipexole, ropinirole, rotigotine) and MAO-B inhibitors for younger patients or early disease
03
COMT inhibitors and amantadine to manage motor fluctuations and dyskinesias
04
Deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus or globus pallidus for motor complications
05
Levodopa-carbidopa intestinal gel or apomorphine infusion for advanced disease
06
Structured physiotherapy, speech therapy, nutritional counseling, and psychosocial support

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.