Parkinson’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that, over time, causes problems with movement, cognitive function, and other health concerns. As the condition worsens, the need for memory care increases. Although Parkinson’s disease has no cure, there are treatment options available to help people living with the disease manage symptoms and enhance their quality of life.

Parkinson’s disease occurs when nerve cells in the area of the brain that controls movement become damaged or die. The exact cause of this process is still unknown, but researchers believe it’s a combination of genetic and environmental factors. 

The condition predominately affects the dopamine-producing neurons. Dopamine is the chemical messenger that transmits messages between nerves that control muscle movements. Because Parkinson’s affects this specific area of the brain, it creates many debilitating challenges.

There are an estimated one million people in the United States living with Parkinson’s disease. Many experts believe this number will rise to 1.2 million by 2030, with nearly 90,000 new cases yearly. Studies indicate the condition impacts at least 1% of people over 60, ranking Parkinson’s disease second among age-related degenerative brain diseases behind Alzheimer’s.

Not everyone reacts to Parkinson’s disease the same way. The type, severity, and progression of symptoms vary from person to person. Symptoms can change from day to day, or even hour to hour. 

Parkinson’s disease signs and symptoms can be broken down into two categories:

Motor Symptoms

The most common motor symptoms, or movement-related symptoms, of Parkinson’s disease include:

• Tremors: Most commonly occurring at rest, rhythmic shaking, called tremors, typically starts in one hand, foot, or leg, and eventually affects both sides of the body. About 80% of people with Parkinson’s disease report tremors.
• Slow movements (bradykinesia): Over time, Parkinson’s disease slows your movement, making simple tasks difficult and time-consuming. This symptom is caused by problems with muscle control.
• Rigidity: Muscle stiffness, or rigidity, refers to a tightness or stiffness of the limbs or torso and can be painful or limit the range of motion. This symptom is often mistaken for arthritis or orthopedic problems, especially in the early stages of Parkinson’s disease.
• Postural instability: The slowed movements and stiffness associated with Parkinson’s disease can often lead to a hunched-over or stooped stance. This symptom becomes much more noticeable as the condition worsens and can cause falls.
• Voice changes: Reduced muscle control in the throat and chest can cause you to speak softly, slur, or hesitate before talking. In more advanced Parkinson’s, your speaking may become rapid with the words crowded together, or stuttering may occur.
• Other motor symptoms: Additional motor symptoms can include:
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Loss of automatic movements, including blinking, smiling, and swinging your arms when walking
  • Cramped or small handwriting
  • Drooling

Non-Motor Symptoms

You may also experience symptoms that aren’t related to movement. Non-motor symptoms are often prevalent in the condition’s earliest stages and can include:

• Depression
• Lost sense of smell
• Cognitive changes, such as trouble thinking, finding the right words, or focusing
• Lightheadedness due to the body’s inability to properly regulate blood pressure
• Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
• Weight loss
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Melanoma
• Psychosis
• Sweating
• Urinary issues
• Sexual dysfunction