What Organs Does Parkinson's Disease Affect?

When people hear about Parkinson’s disease, they often think of tremors and movement challenges. But one of the most important questions to explore is: What organs does Parkinson’s disease affect?
​The answer is broader than many expect. While Parkinson’s primarily impacts the brain, it can have far-reaching effects on multiple organ systems throughout the body

What Organs Does Parkinson’s Disease Affect?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that originates in the brain, specifically in an area called the substantia nigra. This region is responsible for producing dopamine, a neurotransmitter essential for controlling movement. As dopamine-producing cells die, motor symptoms like tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement) begin to appear.

But the impact of Parkinson’s doesn’t stop there. Let’s explore the various organ systems affected:
1. Brain and Nervous System
The brain is the primary organ affected by Parkinson’s disease. As the disease progresses, it also impacts areas that control mood, memory, and executive function. This can lead to depression, anxiety, and cognitive changes or even dementia in the later stages of PD.
2. Digestive System
PD affects the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions, including digestion. Many people with Parkinson’s experience constipation, slow gastric emptying (gastroparesis), and difficulty swallowing, making gastrointestinal discomfort a common non-motor symptom.
3. Heart and Circulatory System
The same autonomic dysfunction that affects digestion can also disrupt cardiovascular regulation, leading to symptoms like orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing), which causes dizziness or fainting.
4. Urinary System
Parkinson’s can affect bladder control, leading to frequent urination, urgency, or incontinence. This is again related to the disruption of autonomic nerve signals.
5. Muscles and Skeletal System
Though not an “organ” in the traditional sense, the muscular system is heavily impacted by PD. Muscle stiffness, postural instability, and fatigue can limit mobility and reduce independence over time.
6. Lungs and Respiratory System
As the disease progresses, respiratory function can become compromised due to weak chest muscles and reduced coordination, increasing the risk of infections like pneumonia.

Support for Living Well with Parkinson’s
If you or someone you love is navigating life with Parkinson’s disease, local support can make a meaningful difference. That’s where the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) steps in.
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For over 25 years, PASWFL has offered free programs, educational resources, and community support to individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s and related neurological diseases. With more than 25 programs each week, including wellness classes, support groups, and educational seminars, PASWFL is dedicated to helping you live well with PD.
There is no cost to become a member, and the support is both compassionate and confidential.
Visit www.parkinsonassociationswfl.org to explore their resources and become a part of this empowering community.

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Parkinson’s disease may affect many organs, but you are not alone. With education, community, and the right resources, living well with Parkinson’s is possible.