Parkinson’s disease is one of the most prominent and well-known neurodegenerative conditions. However, despite extensive research, it remains one of the most mysterious. It has a detailed history, and the volunteers at Connecticut Advocates for Parkinson’s  – serving all of Connecticut –  want to share this information, as it provides insight into the complexity of the disease and the search for a cure.

A History of Parkinson’s Disease

Early References

While Parkinson’s disease wasn’t officially designated until the 1800s, early descriptions by ancient cultures suggest that people were living with it thousands of years ago. One of the earliest comes from Egypt in the 12th century, detailing an aged king experiencing tremors and common Parkinson’s symptoms. Likewise, the Bible, Greek culture, and 10th-century Indian cultures speak of similar symptoms, including more advanced signs such as the loss of speech and paralysis.

Official Discovery

Parkinson’s disease received more attention in the 17th century as doctors detailed aspects of the condition, primarily tremor and muscle rigidity—two of the most distinct side effects. It wasn’t officially defined in the medical community until 1817 when James Parkinson published a series of essays about “paralysis agitans.” However, it took several decades until the medical community acknowledged it. Neurologists used it as a basis for further research, with 1868 through 1881 being a major time of discovery.

20th Century

During the 1900s, neurologists began to investigate the effects of Parkinson’s disease on a deeper level. There was an emphasis on Lewy bodies—a major contributor to Parkinson’s—where the disease affects the brain and biochemical changes. Arvid Carlsson was the first to acknowledge the role dopamine played in Parkinson’s disease and later received a Nobel Prize. This was crucial to future research and has led to many advances that are used today. 

While there’s no cure, research continues to discover new connections between Parkinson’s and other bodily reactions, as well as potential treatment options. The volunteers at Connecticut Advocates for Parkinson’s are committed to supporting and sharing this information and offer a variety of resources for people with Parkinson’s disease. If you’re interested in learning more about support options, local resources, best practices, or area clinical trials, call (860) 266-6040 to speak with a representative and visit their website and Facebook page.