Cruel condition affecting 8,000 people in Ireland

PARKINSON’S disease is a progressive disorder that affects around 8,000 people in Ireland.

It is caused by a loss of nerve cells in part of the brain called the substantia nigra.

This area is responsible for controlling and co-ordinating body movements.

If these nerve cells die, it causes body movements to

become slow or abnormal. While Parkinson’s disease isn’t fatal, related complications like falls and deep vein thrombosis can reduce life expectancy.

Unfortunately there are no tests to diagnose Parkinson’s disease.

Instead doctors base their conclusions on symptoms, medical history and the results of a clinical examination.