Parkinson's disease is a progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects movement. It develops gradually, often starting with a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand. But while tremor may be the most well-known sign of Parkinson's disease, the disorder also commonly causes a slowing or freezing of movement.

Friends and family may notice that your face shows little or no expression and your arms don't swing when you walk. Speech often becomes soft and mumbling. Parkinson's symptoms tend to worsen as the disease progresses. There is no cure for Parkinson's disease. Many different types of medicines can treat its symptoms.

Many myths and misconceptions abound Parkinson's disease. Several unrelated symptoms and causes also attributed to the disease. Many of these incorrect impressions often portray the disease an enigma. A scientific approach through understanding the facts about the disease could go a long way in tackling it. We provide you with a list of eight lesser known facts about the ailment:

1. Parkinson's is not always a disease of the old age. Actually about 5 to 10 percent of Parkinson's disease cases occur in people under 40

2. The real symptoms of Parkinson's disease are anxiety, depression, sweating, erectile dysfunction and bladder problems

3. Parkinson's disease cannot flare up unexpectedly. Symptoms may fluctuate throughout the day. But the progression of Parkinson's disease is very slow

4. People with Parkinson's disease have been shown to have a higher risk of melanoma, which is the most serious form of skin cancer

5. Fever, headache and loss of strength should not be attributed to Parkinson's disease

6. Some Parkinson's disease medications can actually cause addictions like compulsive gambling, shopping and eating

7. Exercise is found useful in slowing the progression of Parkinson's disease

8. Parkinson's disease itself is not fatal. It is often the complications associated with Parkinson's disease that can lead to death. However, most people live 20 to 30 years with the disease.