June 7, 2025
Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that affects the nervous system and physical movement. It is a progressive condition that worsens with age and requires excessive care and support. Unlike other common disorders, Parkinson’s disease may show limited signs in the early stages; however, as the condition grows severe, the symptoms start to become more and more evident and difficult to manage. In the blog below, we shall learn some of the common Parkinson’s disease symptoms, its causes and available treatment options to help you manage it better.
It is important to get a brief overview of the condition before understanding its causes, symptoms and treatment options. It is characterised by reduced production of dopamine in the body. Dopamine is one of the major neurotransmitters of the body associated with motor movement, and a lack of its production not only affects movement but also gives way to other non-motor-related symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
While there are several potential causes, the exact reason for the illness still remains unclear. Studies state that several environmental and genetic factors could be responsible for the development of this disorder. Some of the factors include the following:
Genetics: Certain genetic factors are known to increase a person’s risk of developing the disorder. Parkinson’s can run in families, which means there is a chance of inheriting it from either or both of your parents.
Environmental factors: Studies have shown that exposure to certain environmental toxins can increase the risks of Parkinson’s disease. Specific chemicals, herbicides, and other harmful toxins have been known to contribute to the development of the disorder. However, there isn’t any evidence that claims these factors to be the main cause of the condition.
Head Injury: Research states that severe head trauma or multiple head injuries are a recognised risk factor for Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, long-term consumption of specific medications, such as antipsychotic tablets, can potentially increase the chances of developing the disorder.
Parkinson’s disease symptoms progress from mild and manageable to severe ones that make daily living a challenge. In addition to motor-related symptoms, PD is also known to produce non-motor symptoms like depression and anxiety. Listed below are some of the common Parkinson’s disease symptoms:
Slowed Movement (Bradykinesia): The condition makes simple movements difficult due to a lack of muscle control. Patients often describe it as weakness; however, there isn’t an actual loss of strength.
Tremors: You might experience a rhythmic shaking in your fingers or your foot. As the condition progresses, the tremors too become intense and start affecting the entire body. It is noticed that most people experience these tremors more when they’re under stress or at rest.
Muscle Rigidity: You may experience a certain stiffness in your muscles, which might cause your movements to be jerky and painful.
Postural Instability: Due to a lack of muscle coordination and balance, maintaining an upright posture becomes difficult. It even increases the risk of falls. Over time, your posture might also become stooped.
Shuffling Walk: A lack of motor control may also cause a symptom known as shuffling walk, wherein you walk slowly by taking short and dragging steps. It also leads to reduced arm swinging and an increase of foot sliding while walking.
Changes in Speech: Some people experience difficulty in speaking fluently. Their speech may appear unclear or monotonous, often lacking normal speaking patterns and curves.
Less Blinking: The disorder also leads to a lack of facial muscle control due to which certain habits such as blinking, which often occurred automatically might not seem natural anymore.
Changes in Handwriting: Persons with Parkinson’s disease may find it difficult to write neatly due to loss of muscle control. Their handwriting might appear cramped up or too small to decipher. This condition is also known as micrographia.
As mentioned earlier, along with these motor symptoms, Parkinson’s disease also causes non-motor symptoms. Some of these are as follows:
Mood Disorders: Anxiety, depression, irritability, apathy, etc., are some of the most common conditions experienced with Parkinson’s disease.
Loss of Smell (Anosmia): This symptom often occurs years before the actual onset of the illness due to which it is often ignored or misunderstood. Parkinson’s disease affects several areas of the brain, including the olfactory bulb which is responsible for the detection of smells.
Sleep Disorders: REM behaviour disorder, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, etc., are common in this condition.
Cognitive Changes: Issues such as difficulty in remembering things or focusing on certain tasks are often noticed in the later stages of the disease.
While there isn’t a set cure for Parkinson’s disease, there are several treatment options that help manage the symptoms and slow down its progression, thereby improving the patient’s quality of life. These treatment plans are often personalised depending on the patient’s condition, severity of symptoms and overall health. Some of the common Parkinson’s disease treatments include:
This includes several medications that help manage motor symptoms, block enzymes, stimulate dopamine receptors, etc. However, it is important to note that medications do not slow down the condition’s progression; they simply help control the symptoms better.
Physical therapy includes exercises and mobility stretches that help improve bodily flexibility. These treatment programs are tailored to the patient’s needs, helping manage symptoms and reduce the risk of falls. Patients with severe movement issues can book an ambulance with Zenplus Private Limited for their scheduled trips to their healthcare provider and access smooth and safe transportation.
Following a balanced diet, incorporating simple exercises in daily activities and getting adequate sleep helps contribute to overall well-being. Many people even join support groups or counselling sessions to help them regulate and manage their emotions better with regards to the illness.
Living with Parkinson’s Disease can be extremely challenging. That is why early recognition of symptoms and timely action are really important. While there isn’t any cure for the condition, there are several treatment options that help control its progression and enhance quality of life. Today, with the advancements in technology and science, individuals with PD are able to lead active and healthy lives.
There isn’t a specific test used to diagnose Parkinson’s disease; however, several blood tests and x-rays may be performed to rule out other conditions.
No, there isn’t a cure for Parkinson’s disease; however, there are several treatment options available that help manage its symptoms and slow down its progression.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive illness. Its symptoms gradually worsen with time making it difficult to perform simple day-to-day tasks without any external support.