Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive, neurodegenerative, movement disorder that most often occurs in individuals over the age of 50.  There is no cure and symptoms generally worsen over time, affecting a person’s breathing, balance, movement, and heart functions.  PD is caused by the slow deterioration of certain neurons in the brain that create dopamine (a natural substance found in the brain that helps control muscle movement in the body).  Even though there is no cure, medications may make a big difference in improving symptoms.  In some cases, surgery is recommended to regulate certain regions of the brain and improve symptoms. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, Parkinson’s symptoms can vary from person to person, and early signs go unnoticed.  PD usually starts on one side of the body, and though it eventually moves to the other side, the initial side is more severely affected. 

Mayo Clinic’s list of symptoms includes:

• ·         Tremors that usually begin in a limb, often the hand or fingers. A characteristic of Parkinson's disease is a tremor in the hand while it is relaxed (at rest).
• ·         Slowed movement (bradykinesia).  A reduced ability to move and the slowing of movement contributing to difficulty in walking and getting up out of a chair.  May include dragging of the feet. 
• ·         Rigid, stiff muscles that limit the range of motion and cause pain.
• ·         Impaired posture and balance as well as loss of automatic movement.
• ·         Changes in speech and/or writing. Symptoms include speaking softly, quickly, slurring or hesitation before talking.  Writing can also become small and difficult. 
• The National Parkinson Foundation cautions that no single symptom means you have Parkinson's, but rather someone must be diagnosed by a doctor.  Living with Parkinson's disease can affect daily activities but with the help of SYNERGY HomeCare, life can be made easier, safer and more enjoyable.

*Our post is for information purposes only and not a substitute for seeking medical advice.

Sources:

parkinsoninfo.org/about-parkinsons-disease  

mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/parkinsons-disease/basics/symptoms/con-20028488  

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