If you have noticed a slight tremor in your hand, a friend's handwriting becoming smaller, or a parent's steps becoming slower and shorter, you may wonder if these could be signs of Parkinson's disease.
Parkinson's disease is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders. It affects more than 10 million people worldwide, according to the Parkinson's Foundation. Understanding its symptoms, causes and treatment options can help people recognise the condition early and seek appropriate care.
What Is Parkinson's Disease?
Parkinson's disease is a progressive brain condition that mainly affects movement. It happens when nerve cells in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra are damaged and produce less dopamine, a chemical that helps control smooth and steady movements.
Parkinson's disease is a progressive, degenerative and chronic neurological disorder. It is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative illness and mainly affects movement. Common motor symptoms include tremors, slowness of movement (bradykinesia), muscle stiffness (rigidity) and problems with balance and posture.
According to the World Health Organisation, Parkinson's disease can cause problems with movement, sleep, mood, thinking, pain and other aspects of health. Symptoms usually become more noticeable as the condition progresses.
Common Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's does not look the same in everyone. Some people notice changes in movement first, while others may experience non-movement symptoms earlier.
Motor Symptoms
Common movement-related symptoms include:
- Tremor, often starting in one hand and usually occurring at rest
- Muscle stiffness or rigidity
- Slowness of movement, known as bradykinesia
- Stooped posture and smaller, shuffling steps
- Reduced arm swing while walking
- Balance problems and an increased risk of falls
Non-Motor Symptoms
Non-motor symptoms can sometimes appear years before the movement-related symptoms of Parkinson's disease, such as tremors, slowness of movement and muscle stiffness. These symptoms can be easy to overlook and may include:
- Reduced sense of smell
- Constipation
- Sleep problems, including acting out dreams
- Softer speech and smaller handwriting
- Low mood, anxiety, or reduced interest in activities
- Changes in thinking or memory as the disease progresses
If several of these symptoms occur together, it is worth discussing them with a doctor rather than assuming they are simply part of ageing.
What Causes Parkinson's Disease?
There is no single known cause of Parkinson's disease. It is thought to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Age is the strongest known risk factor. Some people have specific genetic changes that increase their risk, but most cases occur without a clear family history.
Environmental and other factors that may be associated with an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease include:
- Exposure to pesticides and herbicides
- Exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as carbon disulfide, cyanide, methanol and organic solvents
- Exposure to MPTP, a neurotoxin that can cause parkinsonism
- History of head trauma
- Elevated cholesterol levels
- High caloric intake
- Increased body mass index (BMI)
Men are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease more often than women.
How Is Parkinson's Disease Diagnosed?
There is no single blood test or scan that can confirm Parkinson's disease. Doctors usually diagnose it based on a person's symptoms, medical history and physical examination.
MRI or CT scans may sometimes be used to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. They do not confirm Parkinson's disease. If the symptoms are unclear, seeing a neurologist or movement disorder specialist can be helpful.
Parkinson's Disease Treatment and Management
There is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease, but treatment can help manage symptoms and support independence and quality of life.
Medication: Levodopa, usually combined with carbidopa, is one of the most effective medicines for improving movement symptoms. Other medicines may also be prescribed depending on a person's symptoms and stage of the disease. Treatment is usually reviewed regularly because symptoms can change over time.
Surgical Options: For some people whose symptoms are not adequately controlled with medicines, deep brain stimulation (DBS) may be considered. It can help reduce symptoms such as tremor, stiffness and involuntary movements but does not cure Parkinson's disease.
Rehabilitation and Lifestyle Support: Rehabilitation can help people maintain movement, independence and quality of life. It may include:
- Physiotherapy to improve strength, balance and flexibility
- Speech and language therapy for speech or swallowing difficulties
- Occupational therapy to make daily activities easier and safer
- Regular exercise to support mobility, balance and overall wellbeing
Living Well With Parkinson's
A Parkinson's diagnosis can be challenging, but many people continue to work, travel and enjoy their daily activities with the right support.
Helpful habits include:
- Stay physically active and follow an exercise routine recommended by your healthcare team
- Take medicines as prescribed and follow the recommended schedule
- Attend regular follow-up appointments
- Stay connected with family, friends or support groups
- Seek professional help if you experience ongoing anxiety, low mood or other emotional difficulties
Conclusion
Parkinson's disease is a long-term condition, but appropriate treatment and regular care can help manage symptoms and maintain quality of life. If you notice symptoms such as tremors, changes in handwriting, slower movements or problems with balance, speak with a doctor for an evaluation.
How PB Health Can Support You
Managing Parkinson's disease may involve neurologists, physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals. PB Health can help patients and families understand their care options and connect with appropriate healthcare support at a neuro hospital when needed.