Parkinson’s disease: Causes include traumatic brain injury and lead exposure

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Parkinson’s disease is caused by a loss of nerve cells in the part of the brain called the substantia nigra. “Nerve cells in this part of the brain are responsible for producing a chemical called dopamine,” the NHS explains. Dopamine sends a signal between parts of the brain and the nervous system that helps control and coordinate body movements.

It is not known exactly what causes dopamine loss, but certain lifestyle habits have been identified.

According to a study published in the journal Parkinson’s diseaseA history of head trauma or concussion, and exposure to lead can more than double the risk of Parkinson’s.

When determining the risk of Parkinson’s, the study authors said conflicting research has been published on whether genetic factors play a role in the pathogenesis of the disease.

As a result, they found that Parkinson’s is likely caused by a complex interaction between genetic and environmental risk factors, which include a history of exposure to pesticides, toxic metals, solvents, and traumatic brain injury.

READ MORE: The Healthy Lifestyle That Doubles Your Risk Of Parkinson’s Disease – Surprising Finding

“The identification of environmental factors that increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease would enable efforts to reduce exposure and prevent disease, while at the same time facilitating the experimental investigation of mechanisms and intervention options,” the study authors noted.

Along with previous studies that found a positive association between living in the country and developing Parkinson’s.

To collect their results, the researchers conducted a questionnaire-based case-control study in people with Parkinson’s.

Participants were screened for lifestyle factors, including a variety of specific occupations, hobby-related activities, and associated chemical exposures.

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“In addition to exposure and physical activity, participants reported a family history of ‘diagnosed neurological disorder’ (Parkinon, dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or others) in each of their family members,” the researchers said.

The researchers found that reports of head trauma or concussion that resulted in fainting or loss of consciousness prior to the diagnosis date were much more common in Parkinson’s patients than in control subjects.

The association remained significant after adjusting for age, gender, smoking, family history, and physical activity.

The family history of Parkinson’s disease in a first- or second-degree relative was also significantly higher in the cases than in the controls.

In addition, the researchers observed a 2.67-fold increased risk of Parkinson’s disease associated with lead-related activities.

“Incorporating these factors into Parkinson’s risk fosters public health efforts to reduce exposure while motivating future working mechanisms and intervention options,” concluded the study’s authors.

Other possible causes

“Parkinsonism” is the umbrella term used to describe the symptoms of tremors, muscle stiffness and slowness of movement.

Parkinson’s disease is the most common type of parkinsonism, according to the NHS, but there are also some rarer types where a specific cause can be identified.

These include parkinsonism caused by:

  • Medication (drug-induced parkinsonism) – symptoms develop after taking certain medications, such as:
  • Other progressive brain diseases – such as progressive supranuclear palsy, multiple system atrophy, and corticobasal degeneration
  • Cerebrovascular disease – in which a series of small strokes causes several parts of the brain to die.

How is Parkinsonism Diagnosed?

Parkinson’s UK stated, “You should be referred to a Parkinson’s specialist for a diagnosis of Parkinsonism.

“You might want to research different things before making a diagnosis.”

According to the health department, your specialist will look at your medical history, ask you about your symptoms and conduct a medical examination.

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