According to the Mayo Clinic, Parkinson’s disease is “a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement” and is caused by certain nerve cells in the brain gradually breaking down or dying. The signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease may be different for everyone and, in the early stages of the disease, may be mild and go unnoticed. They often begin on one side of the body and usually remain worse on that side. These signs and symptoms may start with a barely noticeable tremor in one hand, a person’s face may show little to no expression, and a person’s arms may not swing as they walk. Other signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease may include muscle stiffness that may affect a person’s range of motion, impaired posture and balance, changes in speech that may include slurring or hesitation before talking, and the loss of automatic movements that may include blinking or smiling.
The cause of Parkinson’s disease is not yet known. Several factors seem to play a role, and there may be a genetic component. Most people who develop Parkinson’s start to show signs and symptoms at age 60 or older, but others may develop “young onset” Parkinson’s before age 50. Exposure to certain toxins or environmental factors may increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. Researchers have noted that many changes occur in the brains of people with Parkinson’s disease. However, it is not clear why these changes happen.
Parkinson’s may be accompanied by additional issues, which may be treatable. A person with Parkinson’s disease may experience cognitive problems, from trouble thinking to dementia, which occur in the later stages of the disease. They may also experience depression and emotional challenges, such as fear, anxiety, or the loss of motivation. Doctors may prescribe medications to help with the emotional changes. A person with Parkinson’s disease may develop chewing, eating, and swallowing difficulties as the disease progresses, which may lead to choking and poor nutrition. Other issues that people with Parkinson’s disease may experience may include sleeping disorders, bladder problems, blood pressure changes, sensory loss, fatigue, and pain, among others.
Currently, there are no proven ways to prevent or cure the disease. However, medications may help people with Parkinson’s disease control their symptoms. Doctors may also recommend lifestyle changes such as ongoing aerobic exercise. They may also prescribe physical therapy that focuses on stretching and balance and speech therapy to help improve any speech problems.
To learn more about Parkinson’s disease or to obtain resources related to Parkinson’s, contact NARIC’s information specialists by phone, chat, or email.
