Physiology of the Central Nervous System Related to Parkinson's Disease - Essay Example

Parkinson’s disease is named after the English doctor, James Parkinson who published the first detailed essay on the disease called shaking palsy. This is a degenerative disease of the central nervous system that ultimately targets the dopamine generating cells situated in the substantia nigra a region in the midbrain. Once the dopamine generating cells have been destroyed, the synchronization of movement by both the brain and the spinal cord is affected. (Weiner, Shulman, & Lang, 2013 pg.21).

            A precise study and diagnosis of the disease are characterized by the buildup of a protein called alpha-synuclein in the neurons specifically in the inclusions of the neurons called the Lewy bodies. Since this directly affects the neurons, the formation and activity of dopamine, which is formed by certain neurons in some sections of the midbrain are also disrupted. The accumulation of this protein causes massive death of dopamine-producing neurons, and the inevitable outcome is Parkinson’s disease. The seriousness of the disease will depend on the distribution of the Lewy bodies within the neurons, and the more the distribution, the higher the rate of manifestation of Parkinson’s disease. (Tseng, 2009 pg93).

            It has been determined that Parkinson’s disease is rampant in old age than it is in younger people, it rarely affects young individuals unless some heredity factors come into play. Exposure to some pesticides increases the risk of Parkinson’s disease and ironically there is a reduced risk in tobacco smokers. Any disease must be detected in its early stages and treatment have done instantly so as to avoid severe cases of the disease. Parkinson’s disease has a number of very clear symptoms that are easily recognizable so that treatment can start early. The disease has a deceptive beginning which progresses slowly. The symptoms can be differentiated into the motor and non-motor symptoms. The common early motor signs of the disease are tremors and awkward movements. This involves involuntary and uncontrolled movement of the limbs and other parts of the body. Muscle rigidity also appears; posture and gait disorders are also common. Non-motor symptoms have been witnessed to have more effect than motor ones. Depression has been seen as a result of the disease, the act of being restricted or bound (action), incontinent urine, and sleeping difficulties (dyssomnia). (Tuite, 2009 pg.18)

            Parkinson’s disease only needs to be detected early and treatment began. It is irreversible in advanced stages, and it can lead to total paralysis leading to over-dependence on help for movement. The only solution is to notice the symptoms in a timely manner and take the appropriate medical action. Levodopa has been used to increase dopamine secretion by the midbrain neurons and help reduce quick motor impairment. (Jankovic & Tolosa, 2007 pg.119).

            Parkinson’s disease is a typical CNS disease, and it targets the brain and interferes with the neurons responsible for the perception of locomotory stimuli. Once the damage is done to the dopamine secreting cells, their activities are stopped, and overall body movement is totally affected. But, at the early stages of the disease things can go right if levodopa is administered and other necessary actions toward curbing the disease are taken.