Parkinson's Disease

A progressive brain condition that affects movement, causing tremor, stiffness and slowness.

BrainMovementLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Shaking (tremor) at rest, stiff muscles, slow movements, small handwriting, a shuffling walk and balance problems.

Common Treatments

Medicines such as levodopa, physiotherapy, exercise and sometimes deep brain stimulation.

Risk Factors

Older age, being male, family history and possibly exposure to some pesticides.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

Parkinson's happens when brain cells that make dopamine, a chemical that controls movement, are gradually lost.

It can also cause non-movement symptoms such as constipation, sleep problems, low mood and memory changes. Treatment can control symptoms well for many years.

Symptoms

Tremor

Shaking, often starting in one hand at rest.

Stiffness

Rigid, aching muscles.

Slow movement

Small shuffling steps and difficulty starting to walk.

Other symptoms

Loss of smell, constipation, sleep problems and low mood.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

Loss of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the brain; the exact cause is unknown.

Key Risk Factors

  • Age Usually starts after 60.
  • Sex More common in men.
  • Genes and environment A small number of cases are inherited.

Management & Treatment

01. Medicines

Levodopa-carbidopa and others that boost or mimic dopamine.

02. Therapy and exercise

Physiotherapy, speech and occupational therapy.

03. Surgery

Deep brain stimulation for some people.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Parkinson's fatal?
It isn't directly fatal, and many people live for decades with it.
Does exercise help?
Yes. Regular exercise helps movement and wellbeing.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.