A problem that affects millions of people worldwide and affects over 3% of Brazilians over the age of 64, Parkinson's disease (PD) is primarily known for its symptoms of slow movements, stiffness, and resting tremors.

However, these are just some of the effects that this disease has on the body.

To mark World Parkinson's Disease Awareness Day (April 11), we have prepared special content to address the main questions about this topic.

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative condition that results in the loss of dopaminergic neurons.

Motor disturbances become evident when approximately 60% to 80% of these neurons are lost in the substantia nigra.

In addition to the characteristic motor symptoms, the disease is also associated with neuropsychiatric problems such as depression and apathy, cognitive decline, loss of autonomy, sleep disorders (such as insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness), and sensory alterations including pain and olfactory problems, among others, as explained by Dr. Manuella Edler Zandoná Giordani, a neurologist from the medical staff at Hospital Mãe de Deus.

The prevalence of the disease increases with aging, is more common in men, and is influenced by family history, genetic factors, exposure to environmental factors such as pesticides, and a history of previous head trauma, among others.

The diagnosis is still clinical, based on the main motor symptoms of the disease, and additional tests such as magnetic resonance imaging and blood tests are used only to evaluate differential diagnoses.

Although there have been scientific advancements in recent years, there are still no drugs that can slow down or completely prevent the progression of the disease. Therefore, the current treatment mainly aims to alleviate the motor symptoms and is symptomatic.

In this regard, a multidisciplinary approach is essential. In addition to regular follow-ups with neurologists and movement disorder specialists, physiotherapy, speech therapy, nutritional guidance, psychological support, and physical activity bring great benefits to patients.

For cases where symptom control with medication is not effective and results in more severe limitations, surgery is an option for treatment.

The most commonly used approach is Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), which involves the implantation of an electrode in the brain to modulate the dysfunctional brain circuits of the disease.

When appropriately indicated, this surgery can improve motor and non-motor fluctuations of the disease, reduce dyskinesias, prolong the benefits of reduced rigidity, decrease the time when medication effects are not noticeable, improve sleep patterns, among other benefits.

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