What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is an advancing disorder that impacts the nervous system and parts of the body managed by the nerves. Symptoms begin gradually. The initial symptom may be a hardly evident tremor in only one hand. Tremors are not uncommon, but the disorder can also cause stiffness or diminishment of movement.
In the onset stages of this disease, your face might show little to no expression. Your arms might not swing walking. Your speech might become soft or incoherent. Parkinson’s disease symptoms get worse as the condition progresses after a while.
Even though Parkinson’s disease has no cure, medications might considerably improve your symptoms. Typically, your healthcare provider might recommend surgery to regulate particular areas of your brain and improve the symptoms.
Parkinson’s Signs and Symptoms
Parkinson’s disease symptoms and signs can be different for each person. Early signs might be moderate and aren’t noticed. Symptoms usually start on one side of the body and typically stays worse on that side, even following symptoms beginning to impact the limbs on each side.
Parkinson’s signs and symptoms can comprise of:
- Tremor. A tremor, or trembling, typically starts in a limb, usually your hand and/ or fingers. You might rub your forefinger and thumb together. This is referred to as “pill rolling” tremors. Your hand might tremble when it’s resting. The shaking may diminish when you’re carrying out tasks.
- Slowed movement (bradykinesia). After a while, the disease might slow your movement, making easy tasks challenging and time-consuming. Your steps might become shorter when walking. It might be difficult getting out of a chair. You might shuffle or drag your feet as you attempt to walk.
- Stiff muscles. Muscle rigidness might happen in any area of your body. The rigid muscles can be hurtful and restrict your range of motion.
- Flawed posture and balance. Your posture could become leaning. Or you could fall or have balance issues because of Parkinson’s disease.
- Loss of unconscious movements. You may have a diminished ability to carry out unconscious movements, comprising of blinking, swinging your arms when walking, or even smiling.
- Changes in speech. You might speak softly, quickly, slur or hesitate prior to talking. Your speech may be more monotone instead of having the typical speech patterns.
- Changes in Writing. It may become difficult to write, and your writing might appear small.
When to See Your Doctor
See your healthcare professional should you have any of the symptoms listed above related to Parkinson’s disease — not only for diagnosing your condition but also to eliminate any other causes for your symptoms.
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