Understanding Parkinson’s Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors

Parkinson’s Disease is an incurable, progressive neurological condition that affects movement, muscle control, and balance. It is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s, affecting over 10 million people worldwide.

Often starting with a barely noticeable tremor in one hand, the disease develops gradually. But over time, Parkinson’s Disease can significantly impact a person’s daily life, making it difficult to walk, bathe, dress or speak clearly.

Risk factors

Older people, especially those over the age of 60, are most at risk. Men are slightly more likely to develop the disease than women. Although the exact cause is still unknown, it is believed that genetics, exposure to toxic chemicals, and previous head trauma could contribute to your chances of developing Parkinson’s.

As with most conditions, early diagnosis is crucial. Although there is no cure, treatment can reduce or delay symptoms, enabling patients to enjoy a better quality of life for longer.

What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s is a disorder of the central nervous system, affecting the brain’s ability to control movement. It is caused by the body’s failure to produce sufficient dopamine, which plays a key role in transmitting signals from the brain that control smooth and balanced muscle activity. As dopamine levels drop, patients experience:

• Trembling or shaking in the hands, arms, legs, chin or head
• Muscle stiffness and slowness of movement, including difficulty in blinking and smiling
• Impaired balance and coordination
• Slurred or hesitant speech
• Frozen or masklike facial expression
• Loss of smell – this common symptom may occur years before other more recognisable symptoms

When to see the doctor

Many people ignore these symptoms because they are gradual, and may be confused with other conditions.

For example, the hand tremors commonly associated with Parkinson’s can also be caused by fatigue and lack of sleep, stress, an overactive thyroid, low blood sugar, too much coffee or alcohol and certain prescription medications.

There is no specific test for Parkinson’s Disease and it can be difficult to detect in the early stages. However, if you are concerned, your doctor will look at your medical history – including any medication you are taking – and perform a physical examination to test your agility, muscle tone, gait and balance.

Recently, a new early detection test has been developed by the Parkinson’s Foundation in Australia. If you have a keyboard computer and an internet connection you can test yourself for Parkinson’s Disease at home or at the office.

Living with Parkinson’s Disease

While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s Disease, various treatments can help manage symptoms. These include medications that increase or mimic dopamine (e.g. Levodopa), physical therapy, occupational therapy, and in some cases, surgical options like deep brain stimulation (DBS).

One thing we know is that Parkinson’s Disease still holds many secrets. On 16 October 2025, Tafta is hosting a Parkinson’s Workshop, where six guest speakers will share their knowledge and experience.

Starting at 8.00AM, the workshop takes place at 300 Bartle Road, Umbilo. Entry is R200 per person or R150 per person for groups of 5 or more people.

If you are interested in attending, please contact Anusha Hansjee on 031 332 3721 or email hr@tafta.org.za.