Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

Despite thoughts to the contrary not every person suffering from Parkinson’s develops the same or all the signs and symptoms of the disease. Some people suffer from tremors as their main symptoms whereas other people may suffer with problems with their balance or posture.

The progression of the disease accelerates at different rates for different people. However the following list gives an insight to the most universal symptoms seen in those suffering from Parkinson’s disease.

Tremors.

Approximately seventy percent of people usually experience slight tremors in the early stages of the disease. This is usually in the hand or foot down one side of the body. In some people, although this is less common, it is in the face or jaw. Sufferers have described these tremors as a ‘beating’ or oscillating movement. These particular tremors are commonly known as ‘resting tremors’ as they usually appear when the person’s muscles are relaxed.

The affected part of the body usually trembles when it is not moving although the tremor frequently stops when the person begins moving that body part. As the disease progresses the tremor often spreads to the other side of the body although it remains worse on the original side.

Rigidity

Rigidity sets in when the muscles become inflexible and stiff. Muscles are supposed to stretch when they move and relax whilst they are resting. If the muscles are constantly rigid, the muscle tone is always stiff and cannot relax. This results in a decreased range of movement which is shown in an inability to swing their arms or legs because the muscles are too tight. This can often cause cramping and pain.

Bradykinesia

Bradykinesia is the term used for slow movement. The sufferer can also experience incomplete movement and difficulty when initiating movements. People who suffer with Bradykinesia usually walk with short, shuffle type steps known as festination. Bradykinesia and rigidity can be present in the facial muscles which reduce the individual’s range of facial movements and expressions. This results in an appearance similar to a mask.

Postural instability and impaired balance and coordination.

Those people suffering from Parkinson’s disease often suffer from instability whilst they are standing or impaired balance and coordination. Symptoms such as these combined with other symptoms such as Bradykinesia can increase the risk of falls. Those suffering from balance problems often experience difficulties whilst making abrupt movements or turns. They often experience periods of freezing where they have a sensation of feeling stuck to the ground and often find it very difficult to start the physical process of walking. These slow and incomplete movements can also affect the individual’s speaking or swallowing which can result in problems with communication and nutritional needs.