Hearing the words, “You have Parkinson’s,” is life changing. The good news is that there are numerous ways you can take action to live well with Parkinson’s TODAY. Just a decade ago, researchers and doctors didn’t stress the impact exercise, stress management, nutritional choices, and other positive life choices have on Parkinson’s. Now, we know your experience will be impacted positively by your choices and actions. A Parkinson’s Primer for the Newly Diagnosed, will show you how—in a way that won’t overwhelm you with information.

Read more [Davis Phinney]

After receiving a Parkinson's disease (PD) diagnosis newly diagnosed individuals are often told four things: they are not alone, it is important to find a movement disorder specialist, exercise is essential, and they can live well with the disease. 

• You're Not Alone: A big community supports people with Parkinson's.

• See Your Doctor if You Change Fast: Parkinson's usually moves slowly. Quick changes need a check-up.

• Everyone is Different: Symptoms, progression, and treatment responses vary widely from person to person.

• Find a Specialist: A Movement Disorder Specialist (MDS) knows the most about PD.

• Exercise is Key: It's one of the best ways to manage symptoms and stay healthy.

• You Can Live Well: A diagnosis doesn't stop you from enjoying a full life.

• Resource: Check out the book Every Victory Counts from the Davis Phinney Foundation.

Click here to order your manual 

https://davisphinneyfoundation.org/every-victory-counts-manual/#evcorder

YOU'LL DISCOVER

• Essential information about Parkinson’s plus dozens of topics that are frequently overlooked but critical to helping you live well

• Insights from more than 50 Parkinson’s experts, including physicians, therapists, and scientists who share cutting edge research, strategies, and ideas for living well with Parkinson’s

• Advice and inspiration from dozens of people living well with Parkinson’s today

• In-depth information about exercise, nutrition, emotional health, medication, therapies, and more

The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Genetic Factors:

• Certain gene mutations have been linked to an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease.

• These mutations may affect the production or function of a protein called alpha-synuclein, which is thought to play a role in the disease.

Environmental Factors:

• Exposure to certain toxins, such as pesticides and herbicides, has been associated with an increased risk of Parkinson's disease.

• Head trauma and other brain injuries may also be contributing factors.

Other Risk Factors:

• Age: The risk of Parkinson's disease increases with age.

• Sex: Men are more likely to develop the disease than women.

• Family history: Having a close relative with Parkinson's disease increases the risk.

Davis Phinney Foundation Newly diagnosed resources

https://davisphinneyfoundation.org/resources/parkinsons-newly-diagnosed-resources/

M. J. Fox  Parkinson's 101

https://www.michaeljfox.org/parkinsons-101

APDA - Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects predominately dopamine-producing (“dopaminergic”) neurons in a specific area of the brain called substantia nigra.

Symptoms generally develop slowly over years. The progression of symptoms is often a bit different from one person to another due to the diversity of the disease.

https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/what-is-parkinsons