Fighting Parkinson's and raising awareness through the sport of triathlon.

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Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement, but it also impacts mood, cognition, sleep, and other non-motor functions. It occurs when dopamine-producing neurons in a specific area of the brain (the substantia nigra) are gradually lost. Dopamine is critical for coordinating smooth, controlled muscle movement, so as levels decline, people may experience symptoms such as tremor, stiffness, slowness of movement (bradykinesia), and balance or gait challenges.

PD is highly individual—no two people experience it the same way. In addition to motor symptoms, many individuals face fatigue, depression or anxiety, sleep disruption, and cognitive changes.

While there is currently no cure, a combination of medication, physical activity, therapy, and in some cases surgical interventions can significantly manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Research continues to advance rapidly, with growing focus on neuroprotection, personalized treatment, and the role of exercise in slowing functional decline.

Early signs of Parkinson’s often begin subtly and may be mistaken for normal aging. Common early symptoms include a slight tremor in one hand, stiffness, slowed movement, smaller handwriting, reduced facial expression, changes in walking, softer voice, loss of smell, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Some people first notice non-motor symptoms such as anxiety, constipation, or depression before movement changes appear.

There is no single test that definitively diagnoses Parkinson’s. Diagnosis is primarily clinical and made by a neurologist, usually a movement-disorder specialist, based on medical history, symptoms, and a neurological exam.

Doctors look for hallmark features such as tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement). Brain imaging and lab tests may be used to rule out other conditions, and response to Parkinson’s medications often helps support the diagnosis.

Parkinson’s is caused by the progressive loss of dopamine-producing neurons in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra. Dopamine is essential for smooth, coordinated movement. The exact reason these cells die is still unknown. Current evidence suggests Parkinson’s results from a combination of genetic vulnerability and environmental factors, along with changes in how cells handle proteins and energy.

Exercise is one of the most powerful tools available for people with Parkinson’s. Research consistently shows that regular physical activity can improve mobility, balance, strength, mood, sleep, and cognitive function. There is growing evidence that vigorous, consistent exercise may help slow functional progression by supporting brain health and dopamine signaling. This is why movement-based programs—including endurance training, boxing, cycling, and strength work—are increasingly central to Parkinson’s care.