Have you ever felt your body move without thinking, like walking, writing, or smiling? All of these tiny movements occur thanks to the delicate coordination between the brain and muscles, regulated by a vital chemical called dopamine.
However, when dopamine levels decrease significantly, the body's movement-regulating system is disrupted. This is the basis of Parkinson's disease .
What Is Dopamine and Why Is It Important?
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, a chemical that plays a role in transmitting signals between nerve cells in the brain, and functions to regulate:
- Smooth and coordinated body movements
- Motivation and mood
- Concentration and thinking function
In Parkinson's disease, nerve cells in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra are damaged or die. As a result, dopamine production decreases, and the body loses its ability to regulate normal body movements.
How Parkinson's Affects Daily Life
Parkinson's symptoms develop slowly, often starting with seemingly minor symptoms. Some early signs to watch out for include:
- Tremors (shaking) in the hands, arms, or legs when resting
- Slowed body movements (bradykinesia)
- Muscle stiffness (rigidity) that makes the body feel tense or painful
- Balance disorders that increase the risk of falls
- Changes in facial expression or voice that become flatter and slower
- Gait style changes such as reduced arm swing and smaller foot steps.
The impact of Parkinson's is not only physical, but decreased dopamine can also affect emotions, sleep, and thinking ability, thus affecting the overall quality of life.
Can Parkinson's Be Treated?
To date, Parkinson's cannot be cured, but appropriate medical therapy can help control symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life.
Some therapeutic approaches include:
- Dopamine replacement medications, such as levodopa and dopamine agonists
- Physiotherapy and occupational therapy, to maintain flexibility and muscle strength
- Nutritional and psychological support, so that patients remain active and positive
- In certain cases, deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery may be an option.
Maintaining Quality of Life with Parkinson's
Living with Parkinson's doesn't mean losing complete control. With proper management, patients can still engage in activities, work, and enjoy moments with their families.
Some simple steps that can help:
- Stay active and move according to your abilities.
- Eating a balanced nutritious diet
- Get enough sleep and maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Regularly consult with a neurologist
It's Time to Be More Sensitive and Caring about Parkinson's
Dopamine plays a major role in every bodily movement and emotion we experience. Understanding how dopamine deficiency causes Parkinson's can help us be more aware and empathetic towards those experiencing it.
With early detection, appropriate therapy, and environmental support, people with Parkinson's can still live meaningful and productive lives.
Article written by Dr. Gloria Tanjung, Sp.N (Neurology Specialist Doctor at EMC Alam Sutera & Sentul Hospital).