Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease

It is a common mistake to think that all patients suffering from Parkinson's develop the same signs and symptoms of the disease. The truth is symptoms vary from person to person. Some patients suffer from tremors as the main symptoms whereas other people may suffer with problems with balance or posture.

It is also true that the progression of the disease accelerates at different rates for different people. The following details give an insight into the most universal symptoms seen in those suffering from Parkinson's disease:

Tremors and Shakes

It is estimated that nearly 70% of patients experience slight tremors in the early stages of the disease. This normally occurs in the hand or foot on one side of the body. Although less common, the tremors may appear in the face or jaw. Sufferers have described these tremors as a 'hear beat' sensation. These particular tremors are commonly known as 'resting tremors' as they usually appear when the patient's muscles are relaxed.

The affected part of the patient's body may be seen to tremble when it is not moving, but often the tremor will stop when the person begins moving that body part again. As the disease progresses the tremor often spreads to the other side of the body, although it remains worse on the original side.

Stiffness and Rigidity

Stiffness and rigidity sets in when the muscles become inflexible and stiff. Muscles are designed to stretch when they move and to relax when at rest. If the muscles are continually rigid, the muscle tone cannot relax. This results in a decreased range of motion which is revealed in an inability to swing the legs or arms because the muscles are too constricted. This can often cause cramping and pain.

Bradykinesia

Bradykinesia is the medical word used for slow movement. The patient can also experience incomplete movement and difficulty when initiating movements. People who suffer with Bradykinesia usually walk with short, shuffle like steps known as festination. Bradykinesia can be present in the facial muscles which reduce the individual's range of facial expressions. This results in an appearance similar to a wooden look or a mask.

Impaired balance and coordination

Many patients with Parkinson's disease often suffer from instability while standing. This can manifest itself in balance and coordination difficulty. Symptoms such as these combined with other symptoms such as Bradykinesia can increase the risk of falls. Those suffering from balance troubles often experience difficulties while making abrupt movements or turns. They may even experience periods of freezing. This is when they have a sensation of feeling stuck to the ground and often find it very difficult to restart the process of walking. These slow and incomplete movements may go further and affect the individual's speaking ability or swallowing ability which can result in problems with communication and nutritional needs.