What is Parkinson's disease and what do you do if you're diagnosed with it?

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative condition that leads to shaking, loss of balance, and difficulty in walking, among others.

According to an episode of Pinoy MD, it is caused by the loss of brain cells that produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter that controls body movement.

Neurologist Dr. Monica Ang said that symptoms can start with trembling hands and can worsen to loss of balance and slurred speech. Other symptoms include constipation, difficulty in swallowing, excessive drooling, sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression.

Parkinson's disease is a lifetime problem, which means patients will have to bear with it for the rest of their lives. Often, it develops among people older than 50 years old but there are cases where people from the ages of 21 to 40 get it.

However, Dr. Ang said these cases are rare.

"Ito ay rare...nakikita lamang natin sa less than 10 percent ng lahat ng mayroong Parkinson's disease. Kadalasan ang sanhi nito ay genetics, or mayroong problema sa genes or DNA ng pasyente. (This is rare and something we only see in less than 10 percent among all cases of Parkinson's disease. The cause behind this is usually genetics, there is a problem with a person's genes or DNA)," she said.

While there is no cure to Parkinson's, the symptoms can be managed. There are medicines that would help lessen the tremors, the report said.

Patients may undergo physical therapy to regain control and strength of their bodies. One option is the Bereber Sayaw PD, which teaches people a simple dance routine that would help with their coordination.

They might also need to undergo speech therapy if the disease affects their speech.

There are also support groups they may join where they could exchange tips and stories with fellow patients. —JCB, GMA News