Lisa Wynne
Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist, Parkinson’s Ireland
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder. It is the second most common neurological condition, after Alzheimer’s, but it is the fastest-growing neurological condition globally.1
In Ireland, it is estimated that 18,000 people are living with PD. It is variable in its progression, meaning some people progress slower than others, and the symptoms can be effectively controlled with medication for many years.
Role of dopamine in Parkinson’s disease
PD is caused by a loss of a chemical called dopamine. We all lose some of this chemical as we get older. However, people with Parkinson’s lose this chemical at a faster rate than others. It is estimated that by the time symptoms are noticed, about 70% of dopamine has been lost.
Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of Parkinson’s is still not fully known. Current research suggests that genetic factors and environmental factors, such as the use of pesticides, may play a role in some of those affected.
Dopamine is a chemical responsible for
smooth movement and motor control.
Recognising the symptoms of Parkinson’s
Dopamine is a chemical responsible for smooth movement and motor control. As a result, widely recognised symptoms include tremors, which 70% of people experience, along with slowness in movement and issues with gait and mobility.
However, dopamine also plays a role in many other aspects, which, for many people with Parkinson’s, are the more troublesome and hidden symptoms. These may include issues with sleep; psychological symptoms (including anxiety and apathy); cognition changes, such as difficulty concentrating and multi-tasking; and bowel symptoms, such as constipation.
Raising awareness and supporting the community
From this arose our awareness campaign at Parkinson’s Ireland. The theme of the campaign stemmed from the awareness priorities identified by people with Parkinson’s, their families and care partners in a member survey and through the issues that were being brought to us on our support line.
We launched our first major awareness campaign, ‘Different for Everyone’, in April 2024 to represent and recognise the many symptoms that come with PD and how each individual experience with it is different.
Why awareness and education are important
To improve the wellbeing of someone with PD as they age, they must be aware of the many symptoms that come with PD and what can impact them. It is also important for care partners, loved ones and health professionals to be aware of the 40+ symptoms and how they can manifest themselves differently as the disease progresses.
Parkinson’s Ireland provides education to encourage self-management of the condition, helping people live well with Parkinson’s and supporting them throughout their journey.
[1] Dorsey ER, Sherer T, Okun MS, Bloem BR. The Emerging Evidence of the Parkinson Pandemic. J Parkinsons Dis. 2018;8(s1):S3-S8.
