Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month
Source: Parkinson’s Foundation
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a movement disorder of the nervous system that impacts muscle control. PD affects 10 million people worldwide.
Symptoms generally develop slowly over years. The progression of symptoms is often different in each person due to the disease’s diversity. People with PD may experience:
- Tremors or shaking of the hand or limb that occurs at rest.
- Slowness and scarcity of movement.
- Limb stiffness or rigidity.
- Trouble with balance or falls.
- Non-motor symptoms include anxiety, apathy, hallucinations, constipation, drop in blood pressure when standing, sleep problems, loss of smell and cognitive impairments.
The cause of PD remains largely unknown, but scientists believe a combination of genetic and environmental factors may be at the root. Although there is no cure, treatment options vary and include medications, lifestyle adjustments and surgery. While PD itself is not fatal, disease complications can be serious. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, complications from PD are the 14th cause of death in the U.S.
Diagnosis of PD can be a lengthy process. A physical exam, along with the patient’s history and symptoms are used to make the diagnosis. There is no single test that can diagnose PD. Certain tests, such a brain MRI, a dopamine transporter scan (DaTscan) and/or blood work can be used to support the diagnosis of PD or to rule out other medical conditions.
Making an accurate diagnosis of Parkinson’s, particularly in its initial stages, can be difficult. Often, an internist or family physician will make a diagnosis. Many people seek an additional opinion from a movement disorder specialist, which is a neurologist with experience and specific training in the assessment and treatment of PD and related disorders.
For resources and information about Parkinson’s disease, you can contact Parkinson’s Foundation New Jersey & Pennsylvania Chapter at 908-396-7048 or parkinson.org/njpa, TheParkinsonCouncil.org or 610-668-4292, or DanceForParkinsons.org.
