Parkinson's disease is a common progressive neurological disorder that results from degeneration of nerve cells in a region of the brain that controls movement. This degeneration creates a shortage of the brain-signaling chemical known as dopamine, causing impaired movement. It is most commonly characterized by tremors in the arms and legs, muscle stiffness, rigidity, and slowness of movement. As the disease progresses, the patient may develop problems with speech, swallowing, sleep, urination, or constipation. Drooling, sweating and intorerance to heat may occur. In some patients, thought processes such as attention span, concentration, and problem-solving ability are affected. The patient's memory may become severely impaired, a condition known as dementia. Emotional changes, including depression, often occur in Parkinson's disease patients due to the frustration and limitations of the disease.

The following web sites may be helpful in providing information on Parkinson's Disease.