Dedicated non-profit company. Happier Life.

Parkinson's

There is no simple way to deal with the life-changing event of a Parkinson’s diagnosis. The good news: Most people find acceptance and quality of life after the initial adjustment period.

What Is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson’s disease (PD) occurs when brain cells that make dopamine, a chemical that coordinates movement, stop working or die. Because PD can cause tremor, slowness, stiffness, and walking and balance problems, it is called a “movement disorder.” But constipation, depression, memory problems and other non-movement symptoms also can be part of Parkinson’s. PD is a lifelong and progressive disease, which means that symptoms slowly worsen over time.

The experience of living with Parkinson’s over the course of a lifetime is unique to each person. As symptoms and progression vary from person to person, neither you nor your doctor can predict which symptoms you will get, when you will get them or how severe they will be. Even though broad paths of similarity are observed among individuals with PD as the disease progresses, there is no guarantee you will experience what you see in others.

Estimates suggest that Parkinson’s affects nearly 1 million people in the United States and more than 6 million people worldwide.

For an in-depth guide to navigating Parkinson’s disease and living well as the disease progresses, check out our Parkinson’s 360 toolkit.
Follow our social channels for updates about our community fundraisers and to celebrate fundraising success. #beyondparkinsons

"What is Beyond Parkinson's?"

Beyond Parkinson’s is the grassroots community fundraising program of Beyond Parkinson’s Foundation. Since 2006, Beyond Parkinson’s members worldwide have been turning their passions and interests into opportunities to raise funds and awareness for PD research. Every penny donated by Beyond Parkinson’s members goes straight to our high-impact research programs to help speed a cure for Parkinson’s.

For inspiration, check out The Latest from Beyond Parkinson’s.

What Causes Parkinson's Disease?

Researchers believe that in most people, Parkinson’s is caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors.

How Is Parkinson’s Diagnosed?

Doctors use your medical history and physical examination to diagnose Parkinson’s disease (PD). No blood test, brain scan or other test can be used to make a definitive diagnosis of PD.
Scroll to Top