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7 Surprising Facts You Did Not Know About Parkinson's Disease

As humans, we are all prone to developing various diseases and disorders, and there is no escaping from them, as this is an inevitable fact.

There are hundreds of diseases that can affect humans, regardless of the age, gender, etc. So, it is quite impossible to know all the facts about every single disease out there.

Many a times, most of us do not realise that a certain symptom may be specific to a certain disorder, and we may ignore it, making way for more damage.

So, it is crucial to keep updating ourselves about the symptoms and facts about various diseases.

As many of us may be aware, Parkinson's disease is a disorder that affects the central nervous system and damages the nerve cells, thereby leading to slow movements, stiffness of joints and loss of balance.

Other symptoms of Parkinson's disease include tremors, especially in the hands and legs, muscle rigidity, involuntary movements, dizziness, fatigue, impaired voice, anxiety, apathy, loss of bladder control, etc.

There are a few facts about the Parkinson's disease that many of us would not be even aware of, hence have a look below to find out what they are.

Fact #1

Fact #1

Diagnosis of the Parkinson's disease can be extremely difficult, as there are no blood tests or other laboratory tests that can diagnose the disease.

Fact #2

Fact #2

Although it is said that Parkinson's disease usually affects people who are over 55 years of age, the youngest person to have been affected with this disease was only 12 years old!

Fact #3

Fact #3

Although the definite cause for the development of Parkinson's disease is not known, research studies claim that certain viral infections and regular exposure to pesticides, carbon monoxide and certain metals could be few of the reasons.

Fact #4

Fact #4

Research studies have also claimed that victims of drug abuse, who have used drugs like cocaine and heroin in the past, are more likely to be affected with the disorder.

Fact #5

Fact #5

Japan is the only country in the world where the number of women with Parkinson's disease outnumber the men who have been affected with the same disease.

Fact #6

Fact #6

In the 17th century, various extreme forms of treatments were used to treat Parkinson's disease, which included enzymes from winged ants and earthworms.

Fact #7

Fact #7

Although Parkinson's disease can affect people of both sexes, research studies have shown that men are twice more likely to be affected by this disease when compared to women.

Story first published: Monday, July 11, 2016, 12:26 [IST]
Read more about: health brain