Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder. A chemical messenger in the brain, called dopamine, controls movement. Dopamine allows nerve impulses to travel smoothly from one nerve cell to another. In Parkinson’s Disease, the cells that produce dopamine stop functioning properly and die. As a result, nerve impulses are not transmitted properly and movement is affected.
Most Common Signs & Symptoms:
• Tremor at rest
A tremor is a involuntary repetitive shaking movement. Tremors first usually appear in the hand or foot on one side of the body. As PD progresses, tremors may occur on both sides of the body.
• Akinesia (stiffness), Bradykinesia (slowness) and Freezing
Stiffness may be seen in the face with a decrease in facial expression and decreased blinking. A person with PD may have problems swallowing. This can cause saliva to build up in the mouth. They may speak slowly and quietly in a monotone voice.
A person with PD may have difficulties beginning movements or suddenly not be able to move (freezing). They may walk very slowly. PD can cause decreases in motor dexterity. This can cause a person to have problems writing, buttoning clothes and completing other daily tasks.
• Rigidity (stiffness of muscles)
A person with PD may experience stiffness in their muscles and joints.
• Impaired balance
Persons with PD have an increased risk of falling. They have difficultly balancing and can easily loose balance. A person with PD may shuffle and have a stooped posture.
Other Signs & Symptoms:
• Fatigue
Persons with PD may constantly feel tired. This is due to the PD and may also be related to certain medications.
• Sleep Disturbances
Persons with PD may have difficulties sleeping.
• Depression
Depression can be an early symptom of PD.
• Constipation
Constipation may occur due to slow movement in the intestines or certain medications.
• Speech Difficulties
Persons with PD may speak slowly in a quiet monotone voice. Their voice may be strong at the beginning of a sentence, but fade near the end of the sentence. There may be delays or silences in speech. It may be difficult to find the right words when trying to speak.
• Swallowing & Nutrition
Swallowing in persons with PD is slowed. This may cause saliva to build up in the mouth. A person with PD has decreased smell and taste. Because of this food may seem unappealing. Because of swallowing problems, persons with PD have an increased risk of aspiration (fluid or food entering the lungs).
For more information about the signs and symptoms and treatment of Parkinson's Disease refer to
Parkinson Society Canada Resources and Parkinson Society British Columbia.
Information from Parkinson Society Maritime Region. Please refer to Reference Page.
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