world parkinson's day

World Parkinson's Day

April 11

Every year world parkinson's day is celebrated on april 11. Parkinson's disease is a brain disorder that leads to shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with walking, balance, and coordination. Parkinson's symptoms usually begin gradually and get worse over time. As the disease progresses, people may have difficulty walking and talking.The disease is named after the English doctor James Parkinson, who published the first detailed description in An Essay on the Shaking Palsy, in 1817. Public awareness campaigns include World Parkinson's Day (on the birthday of James Parkinson, 11 April) and the use of a red tulipas the symbol of the disease. 

World Parkinson's Awareness Day aims to raise global awareness of Parkinson's disease. In general, members of the public have very limited knowledge about this condition.The cause of parkinson's disease  is unknown  with both inherited and environmental factors being believed to play a role.Those with a family member affected by Parkinson's disease  are at an increased risk of getting the disease, with certain genes known to be inheritable risk factors. Other risk factors are those who have been exposed to certain peaticides and who have prior head injuries . Tobacco smokers and coffee and tea drinkers are at a reduced risk.Many people who have heard of Parkinson' disease associate this condition with the physical symptoms of tremor or rigidity. These symptoms may be shown as head bobbing or other sudden involuntary jerking movements. World Parkinson's Day aims to make more people aware of the non motor symptoms.For those living with Parkinson's disease, some non motor symptoms can be worse for the sufferer than the physical motor problems.

There's currently no cure for Parkinson's disease, but treatments are available to help relieve the symptoms and maintain your quality of life.

These treatments include:

supportive therapies, such as physiotherapymedicationsurgery (for some people)

You may not need any treatment during the early stages of Parkinson's disease as symptoms are usually mild.

But you may need regular appointments with your specialist so your condition can be monitored.Remember that this day is dedicated to an open awareness of this disease, and to help support those groups and organizations that are intent on eradicating or controlling this illness.  So on World Parkinson’s Disease Day, make sure you talk to those in your life about it, and encourage them to join the fight!