Approximately 90,000 people a year in the United States are diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, and it is commonly referred to as either Parkinson’s or Parkinson disease. Nationwide, an estimated 1.1 million Americans are living with PD, a number expected to rise to 1.2 million by 2030. There are 11.8 million people worldwide living with Parkinson’s and that number is expected to more than double by 2050.

Though Parkinson's disease is growing faster than Alzheimer disease, it is still the second most common neurodegenerative disorder. Parkinson’s results from specific brain cells and circuits dying. These cells are responsible for producing dopamine as well as for helping to control movement, coordination, mood and thinking. As the disease progresses and more cells and circuits are affected, patients begin to experience symptoms including shaking (tremors) and trouble walking and moving.

UF Health is a proud Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence and has been a Parkinson’s Foundation-designated continuing care center, research center and outreach center for over 20 years. Our institution is home to the Parkinson’s Foundation National Medical Advisor (since 2006) and Chair of the Clinical Advisory Council, Dr. Michael Okun. Okun also serves as director of the world-renowned “Ask the Doctor” forum on Parkinson.org, the free 1800-4-PD-INFO helpline and has been part of the development of the worldwide Parkinson’s Foundation Centers of Excellence network. We also direct a number of clinical trials to help further our knowledge of Parkinson’s disease.

What causes Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder behind Alzheimer, and one of the most common movement disorders behind essential tremors. With Parkinson’s disease, the brain cells that make dopamine slowly die alongside other crucial brain circuits. These cells help control muscle movement, coordination, mood and thinking. As the disease progresses and nerve cell death continues, patients may begin to experience shaking or tremors as well as trouble walking and moving.

Parkinson disease most often develops after age 50 but can occur at any age. It is one of the most common nervous system problems encountered in older adults.

• The disease affects men more than women, although women also develop the disease. Parkinson's disease can be genetic in ~13% of cases.
• Young-onset Parkinson's disease is growing more common.
• Prior head trauma and exposure to pesticides and chemicals have been associated with the onset of Parkinson’s later in life.

While there is no one cause contributing to Parkinson’s disease, leading a healthy lifestyle, limiting exposure to toxins, exercise, sleeping well, and knowing early symptoms may be beneficial for prevention and for treatment of disease.

What are symptoms of Parkinson’s disease?

Though symptoms can vary, there are common motor and non motor symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease, including:

• Tremor or shaking, though 1 in 5 have no tremor
• Loss of smell
• Constipation
• Stiffness in legs and arms
• Dizziness and fainting
• Speech issues like slurring words
• Slow movement
• Cognitive issues like memory loss
• Loss of motivation
• Hypomimia, a decrease in facial movements
• Drooling and swallowing issues
• Memory loss

While these are common symptoms of Parkinson's disease, other health conditions or neurological disorders can present with similar symptoms. Proper evaluation and diagnosis are crucial for treatment as Parkinson’s disease is very treatable. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek treatment from your medical provider.

What are treatment options for Parkinson's disease?

Though there is no cure for Parkinson's disease, there are a number of treatments and therapies that can help patients improve their quality of life and gain independence from symptoms. UF Health offers the latest in treatment and therapy, due in part to our ongoing research efforts and clinical trials, strengthening our understanding of this complex disease. Treatment and therapy can include:

• Medication that can target dopamine and other brain chemicals to lessen symptoms and the effects of Parkinson's disease.
• Physical, occupational and speech therapy to improve movement, ability to perform daily activities, and to make the voice stronger.
• Lifestyle changes, including eating a healthy, well-balanced diet. A Mediterranean diet has been shown to be especially helpful.
• Regular exercise, such as aerobic or strength training, has been shown to powerfully improve motor symptoms as well as mental health.
• Deep brain stimulation, or DBS.
• Surgery such as focused ultrasound therapy to remove abnormal brain tissue that causes Parkinson symptoms.
• Mental health support via counseling or support groups.

It’s important to emphasize that Parkinson's disease symptoms, treatments and disease progression will vary for each individual, which is why UF Health takes a collaborative and personalized approach to Parkinson’s care. Your doctor will work with you to establish a treatment plan that manages symptoms and meets your specific goals and needs.

Why choose UF Health for Parkinson’s disease care?

The Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at UF Health is home to a team of experts in the field of neurology and movement disorders, as well as to advanced research in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.

The Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at UF Health has assembled a renowned team of neurology and movement disorder specialists, advancing research and care for Parkinson’s disease and many other neurological conditions and disorders.

One central location means patients can receive Parkinson’s treatment from over 12 specialists from different fields all coordinated into one visit. Our patient-centric experience includes interdisciplinary work-up and care for deep brain stimulation, or DBS. We also offer on-site services for MRI, speech and swallowing treatment, and physical therapy and occupational therapy as well as genetic counseling, social work and a nutritionist.

Telehealth

Our neurological specialists will consult with you in the comfort of your own home using your myuflhealth account. Secure video conferencing protects your privacy and saves you time and money traveling to our office. Telehealth appointments are reimbursable through Florida's Medicaid and Medicare programs. Please contact us to set a telehealth appointment at (352) 294-5400.