
People with Parkinson’s disease also lose the nerve endings that produce norepinephrine, the main chemical messenger of the sympathetic nervous system, which controls many functions of the body, such as heart rate and blood pressure. Scientists still do not know what causes the neurons to die.

When the neurons die or become impaired, they produce less dopamine, which causes the movement problems associated with the disease. Normally, these nerve cells, or neurons, produce an important brain chemical known as dopamine. The most prominent signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease occur when nerve cells in the basal ganglia, an area of the brain that controls movement, become impaired and/or die. Early-onset forms of Parkinson’s are often, but not always, inherited, and some forms have been linked to specific alterations in genes. One clear risk is age: Although most people with Parkinson’s first develop the disease after age 60, about 5% to 10% experience onset before the age of 50. It’s unclear why, but studies are underway to understand factors that may increase a person’s risk.

While virtually anyone could be at risk for developing Parkinson’s, some research studies suggest this disease affects more men than women. They may also have mental and behavioral changes, sleep problems, depression, memory difficulties, and fatigue. As the disease progresses, people may have difficulty walking and talking.

Symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen over time.

Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that causes unintended or uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination.
