What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a disorder of the nervous system that impacts the brain’s ability to control movement. It develops when certain brain cells that produce dopamine—a chemical that helps control movement—gradually break down or die. The disease usually progresses slowly over many years, but the rate of progression varies from person to person.
Common Symptoms
Not everyone experiences the same symptoms, but these are most common:
Movement (Motor) Symptoms
- Tremor (shaking) of hands, arms, legs, jaw, or head—often when resting
- Muscle stiffness or rigidity
- Slowness of movement (bradykinesia)
- Balance and walking problems, shuffling gait
Non-Motor Symptoms
- Changes in speech, writing, or facial expression
- Sleep problems
- Daytime sleepiness, fatigue
- Loss of smell
- Constipation
- Depression, anxiety, memory changes, hallucinations
- Low blood pressure when standing (orthostatic hypotension)
How Parkinson’s is Diagnosed
There is no single blood test for Parkinson’s. Diagnosis is based on:
- Medical history and symptom review
- Neurological exam (movement, coordination, balance)
- Sometimes imaging tests such as MRI or DaTscan to rule out other causes
Neurologists—especially those specializing in movement disorders—are best equipped to confirm diagnosis.
Management and Treatment
While there is no cure, many strategies help manage symptoms and try to maintain quality of life:
Medications
- Carbidopa/levodopa (Sinemet®, Parcopa)
- Dopamine agonists (e.g., pramipexole (Mirapex), ropinirole (Requip), rotigotine (Neupro), apomorphine (Apokyn))
- MAO-B inhibitors (e.g., selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), rasagiline (Azilect), safinamide (Xadago))
- Other medicines to treat specific issues like tremor or mood changes (e.g., Amantadine (Symmetrel), trihexyphenidyl (Artane, Teihexy), benztropine (Cogentin), orphenadrine (Norflex))
Lifestyle and Supportive Therapies
- Regular physical activity (walking, stretching, balance and strength training)
- Speech therapy for soft or slurred speech
- Occupational therapy for daily activities and home safety
- Healthy eating: balanced meals, plenty of fiber and fluids
Procedures
- Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) may help when symptoms are not well-controlled with medicine.
Living Well with Parkinson’s
- Medication schedule: Take medications exactly as prescribed and on time.
- Fall prevention: Remove trip hazards, use assistive devices if needed.
- Routine checkups: Regular visits with neurologist and primary care provider.
- Mental health: Seek help for mood changes or anxiety.
- Community support: Parkinson’s disease support groups and exercise programs (in-person or virtual) can improve well-being.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
- Sudden worsening of movement symptoms
- New or severe side effects from medications
- Frequent falls, fainting, or injuries
- Signs of infection or sudden confusion
- Always ask your healthcare provider for specific guidance on signs/symptoms to call to report immediately, and when to seek urgent/emergency care
Call 911 for any medical emergency such as severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or loss of consciousness.
Key Takeaways
- Parkinson’s is a progressive brain disorder that affects movement and more.
- Medications, exercise, and therapies can help improve/maintain quality of life.
- Regular medical care and support from family, friends, and community resources are essential.
This handout is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Patients should follow recommendations from their healthcare team.
This content was created with the assistance of AI. Any AI-generated content was reviewed by a Nurse Practitioner.