Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurological condition affecting movement, caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain. While there is no cure, modern treatments effectively manage symptoms and maintain quality of life.
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by the gradual loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra region of the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter essential for smooth, coordinated movement. As dopamine levels decline, the characteristic motor symptoms of Parkinson's emerge: resting tremor (shaking at rest, typically starting in one hand), rigidity (muscle stiffness), bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability (balance difficulty).
Parkinson's disease also has important non-motor symptoms that often precede the motor features by years: REM sleep behaviour disorder (acting out dreams), hyposmia (reduced sense of smell), constipation, depression, and autonomic dysfunction. The average age of onset is around 60, though younger-onset Parkinson's (before 50) occurs in about 10% of cases. Korea's rapidly ageing population means Parkinson's disease prevalence is expected to rise significantly over the coming decades.
While there is no cure, Parkinson's disease has more effective treatments than any other major neurodegenerative condition. Levodopa (combined with carbidopa as co-careldopa/Sinemet) remains the most potent medication — it replenishes dopamine and dramatically improves motor symptoms. Other medications including dopamine agonists, MAO-B inhibitors, and COMT inhibitors are used to optimise motor control. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) — a neurosurgical procedure — provides excellent long-term motor control in suitable candidates. Korea's neurology services at major hospitals provide multidisciplinary Parkinson's care including specialist nurses, physiotherapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.
Key Points
- Caused by loss of dopamine-producing cells in the substantia nigra
- Classic motor features: resting tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, balance difficulties
- Non-motor features (smell loss, constipation, sleep disturbance) may precede motor symptoms
- Levodopa is the most effective medication — dramatically improves quality of life
- Physiotherapy, speech therapy, and exercise are essential components of care
- Deep brain stimulation (DBS) available for appropriate candidates at major hospitals
Causes & Risk Factors
- Idiopathic (unknown cause) — most cases
- Genetic mutations (LRRK2, PARKIN, SNCA) — account for 10–15% of cases
- Environmental exposures: pesticide exposure linked in some studies
- Head trauma — traumatic brain injury increases long-term risk
- Age — risk increases significantly after 60
When to See a Doctor
- Tremor in a hand, arm, or leg at rest
- Noticeable slowness of movement or stiffness
- Changes in handwriting (micrographia)
- Loss of sense of smell not explained by infection
- Soft or quiet voice, facial masking, or reduced arm swing when walking
- For regular neurology follow-up if already diagnosed
For emergencies in Korea, call 119
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This content is published for educational purposes only. For accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment, consult a licensed KMA physician in Korea.
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Medical Disclaimer
This article is published by DoctorsInKorea.com for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace a professional clinical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. For accurate medical diagnosis and personalised treatment paths, please book an appointment with a licensed KMA physician. For immediate life-threatening medical emergencies in Korea, please call 119.
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Last reviewed: May 29, 2026