Parkinson's Disease Health Center

Parkinson's disease results from a complex interaction of environmental and genetic factors. 

About 15 percent of those diagnosed with Parkinson's have a family history of the condition. Gene mutations and alterations are thought to play a role in risk for the disorder but not in the development of the condition itself. 

Many of the symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease occur when neurons or nerve cells die or become greatly impaired. These cells regularly produce dopamine, which helps regulate movement. When these dopamine-producing neurons die, the communication between the brain and muscles weakens, eventually reaching the point when the brain can no longer control the limb movements.

Review Date: 
July 2, 2012
Last Updated:
August 8, 2014
Source:
dailyrx.com