April is Parkinson's Awareness Month!
1 million people are living with Parkinson’s Disease and a new diagnosis is given every 6 minutes.
Parkinson’s is a brain disease in which nerve cells, or neurons, in the brain die or become impaired. The damage progresses over time. These cells predominately affect areas of the brain that control movement and cause the telltale symptoms, such as tremors. There is no simple blood test to diagnose Parkinson’s. Researchers recently developed a spinal fluid test and a skin biopsy test, but neither is used commonly and neither changes the course for care. For now, doctors look for physical signs and ask questions about common symptoms. Tremor is a comm early sign of Parkinson’s, although about 25 percent of patients don’t experience tremors. Doctors also look for slowed movements, muscle stiffness, posture or speech changes.
Click here to Learn More about causes, symptoms and diagnosis.
Find Parkinson’s Resources Near You
American Parkinson Disease Association helps people impacted by Parkinson’s disease live life to the fullest. They provide access to vital resources and support including webinars, publication and first responder training. APDA has been a funding partner in most major Parkinson’s disease scientific breakthroughs over the last 50 years. Awarding more than $49 million in research grants to date. APDA maintains 8 centers for Advanced Research and individual research grants and fellowships are awarded annually for promising research b experienced and young scientists.
Find Resources & Support Groups
APDA provides local resources and support to the Parkinson’s community. Find a support group, join an art or movement class, get physical or occupational therapy, or take part in clinical trials. Discover all the resources that may be available to you. Program Director, Holly Seymour, MS is available by phone 860-996-4276 or by email at hseymour@apdaparkinson.org to assist with referrals or information.
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