What triggers the symptoms of Parkinson's disease?

The symptoms of Parkinson's disease are primarily triggered by the degeneration of dopamine-releasing neurons, particularly those located in a region of the brain called the substantia nigra. Dopamine is a crucial neurotransmitter that plays a significant role in coordinating smooth and controlled movements. When these neurons degenerate, the levels of dopamine in the brain decrease, leading to difficulties in movement, such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement).

This loss of dopamine disrupts the balance of signals between the dopamine and acetylcholine systems, contributing to the characteristic motor symptoms of the disease. The degeneration process is progressive, which means that symptoms tend to worsen over time as more neurons are lost.

Understanding the role of dopamine is essential, as it highlights the specific neurological changes associated with Parkinson's and underscores the importance of targeted treatments that aim to restore or mimic dopamine activity in the brain to alleviate the symptoms and improve quality of life for those affected by the disease.