What is Parkinson's Disease?
Overview
Causes and Risk Factors
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Genetics: Family history can increase risk.
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Environmental Factors: Exposure to toxins like pesticides.
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Age: Most common in people over 60.
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Gender: Men are more likely to develop Parkinson's than women.
Early Signs of Parkinson's Disease
Recognizing the Signals
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Tremor: A slight shaking or tremor in the hand or fingers when at rest.
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Bradykinesia: Slowness of movement that makes everyday tasks difficult and time-consuming.
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Rigidity: Stiffness in the arms, legs, or trunk that can reduce your range of motion.
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Postural Instability: Impaired balance and coordination leading to a stooped posture.
10 Symptoms of Early Parkinson's
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Tremors: Usually begin in the hands or fingers.
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Small Handwriting: Known as micrographia, writing becomes small and cramped.
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Loss of Smell: Difficulty in detecting odors.
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Trouble Sleeping: Thrashing, talking, or moving violently during sleep.
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Walking Difficulty: Walking with a shuffling gait.
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Constipation: A decrease in bowel movement frequency.
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Soft or Low Voice: A noticeable change in voice volume.
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Masked Face: Reduced facial expressions.
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Dizziness or Fainting: Sudden drops in blood pressure.
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Stooped Posture: Leaning forward while standing.
Progression of Parkinson's Disease
Stages of Parkinson's
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Stage One: Symptoms are mild and do not interfere with daily activities.
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Stage Two: Symptoms worsen, and daily tasks become more difficult.
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Stage Three: Loss of balance and slower movements become apparent.
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Stage Four: Severe symptoms; assistance may be needed for day-to-day activities.
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Stage Five: The most debilitating stage; requires full-time care.
Stages and Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease
Stage
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Symptoms
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Impact
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Stage 1
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Mild symptoms, slight tremors
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Minimal impact on daily life
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Stage 2
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Bilateral symptoms, walking difficulties
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Increased difficulty with tasks
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Stage 3
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Balance issues, noticeable bradykinesia
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Significant impact on daily life
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Stage 4
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Severe movement symptoms, needs assistance
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Major impact on independence
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Stage 5
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Advanced symptoms, possible wheelchair use
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Requires constant care
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Understanding Parkinson's Symptoms
Motor Symptoms
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Tremor: Most common; affects hands, arms, legs, or face.
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Bradykinesia: Slowed movement, reducing spontaneity.
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Rigidity: Muscle stiffness and resistance.
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Postural Instability: Increased risk of falls.
Non-Motor Symptoms
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Cognitive Changes: Memory problems and slow thinking.
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Mood Disorders: Depression and anxiety are common.
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Sleep Problems: Insomnia and REM sleep behavior disorder.
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Autonomic Dysfunction: Issues with blood pressure regulation, sweating, and digestion.
Managing Parkinson's Disease
How to Stop Parkinson's from Progressing
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Medication: Levodopa and dopamine agonists can improve symptoms.
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Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve mobility and balance.
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Diet: A balanced diet supports overall health.
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Therapies: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy can aid in managing symptoms.
Lifestyle Adjustments
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Regular Check-ups: Frequent visits to a neurologist.
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Support Groups: Joining groups for emotional and social support.
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Home Modifications: Making homes safer to prevent falls.
Living with Parkinson's
References
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Parkinson's Foundation: https://www.parkinson.org
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Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org
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National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: https://www.ninds.nih.gov