What have Muhammad Ali, Michael J Fox and Linda Ronstadt all have in common? They were all diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease.
It is a progressive disease of the nervous system marked by tremors, muscular rigidity, and slow, imprecise movements, chiefly affecting both middle-aged and elderly people. It cannot be cured currently, but it is controlled with various medications. It is said lifestyle changes can help, as well as aerobic exercises in some cases.
Recently, scientists have discovered a "warning signal" for Parkinson's which appears years before obvious symptoms. Apparently, researchers found damage to the brain's serotonin system was an "excellent marker" for the long-term condition.
Levels of the chemical give earlier detection rates than dopamine. The loss of Dopamine causes the incurable ailment's involuntary shaking.
The study team from Kings College London said the findings "could open doors to the development of new therapies to slow, and ultimately prevent, progression of the disease".
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