Brief introductory description of physiology of the central nervous Essay

Brief introductory description of physiology of the central nervous system related to Parkinson's disease - Essay Example This is a degenerative disease of the central nervous system that ultimately targets the dopamine generating cells situated in the substantia nigra a region in the midbrain. Once the dopamine generating cells have been destroyed, the synchronization of movement by both the brain and the spinal cord is affected. (Weiner, Shulman, & Lang, 2013 pg.21). A precise study and diagnosis of the disease is characterized by the buildup of a protein called alpha-synuclein in the neurons specifically in the inclusions of the neurons called the Lewy bodies. Since this directly affects the neurons, the formation and activity of dopamine, which is formed by certain neurons in the some sections of the midbrain are also disrupted. The accumulation of this protein cause a massive death of dopamine producing neurons, and the inevitable outcome is the Parkinson’s disease. The seriousness of the disease will depend on the distribution of the Lewy bodies within the neurons, and the more the distribution, the higher the rate of manifestation of Parkinson’s disease. (Tseng, 2009 pg93). It has been determined that the Parkinson’s disease is rampant in old age than it is in younger people, it rarely affect young individuals unless some heredity factors come into play. Exposure to some pesticides increases the risk of Parkinson’s disease and ironically there is a reduced risk in tobacco smokers. Any disease must be detected in its early stages and treatment done instantly so as to avoid severe cases of the disease. Parkinson’s disease has a number of very clear symptoms that are easily recognizable so that treatment can start early. The disease has a deceptive beginning which progresses slowly. The symptoms can be differentiated in motor and non-motor symptoms. The common early motor signs of the disease are tremors and awkward movements. This