Parkinson's disease facts and resources

During the month of April, the nation shines a spotlight on Parkinson's disease, a disorder of the brain that leads to shaking (tremors), difficulty with walking, movement, and coordination.

According to the National Parkinson Foundation, there are an estimated 50,000 to 60,000 new cases of Parkinson's disease diagnosed each year, adding to the approximately one million people currently living with the condition in the United States.

What causes Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease is caused by the progressive impairment or deterioration of nerve cells in an area of the brain known as the substantia nigra. The links between Parkinson's disease and factors such as genetics, aging, toxins in the environment, and free radicals are all being studied, but why this occurs is still unknown.

Nerve cells use a brain chemical called dopamine to help control muscle movements. The characteristic symptoms of Parkinson's are caused when the nerve cells in the brain that make dopamine are slowed and destroyed. Without dopamine, the nerve cells cannot properly send messages. This leads to the loss of muscle function which gets worse over time.

According to the National Institute of Health, Parkinson's usually develops after the age of 50, although in some cases, it can occur in younger adults. The disease affects both men and women. There is no permanent cure for Parkinson's, however, new treatment options are helping people to live a better quality of life.

Are there any early warning signs?

According to the National Parkinson Foundation, the following symptoms could indicate a Parkinson's disease diagnosis. Talk to your physician if you experience any of these symptoms. Your physician may perform diagnostic tests to rule out other disorders that could mimic the signs of Parkinson's.

Early warning signs include:

• Tremors or shaking — This can start as a slight shaking in your finger, thumb, hand, chin or lip. Shaking can also occur in the legs when you sit or relax.
• Small handwriting — You may notice a sudden change in the way you write words on a page, such as smaller letter sizes and words that are crowded together. Writing does change with age due to poor vision or joint stiffness. This happens gradually, but with Parkinson's, the change is sudden.
• Loss of smell — If you seem to have more trouble smelling foods like bananas, pickles, or licorice, talk to your doctor.
• Trouble sleeping — Sudden movements, thrashing, kicking, punching, or falling out of bed during sleep can indicate Parkinson's.
• Trouble moving or walking — As people age, it can be common to experience a feeling of stiffness when walking. If this sensation does not go away after moving, it could be an early warning sign. Other signs include a feeling that your feet seem stuck to the floor, your arms do not swing when you walk, looking stiff when you walk, and a feeling of stiffness or pain in your shoulders or hips.
• A soft or low voice — If your voice suddenly becomes soft or hoarse when you speak in a normal tone, you should see your doctor..
• Constipation — Straining your bowels can be an early sign of Parkinson's, although there are many other conditions that can cause constipation. If you are experiencing constipation along with other symptoms listed here, it's important to share this with your physician..
• Masked face — A blank stare, not blinking your eyes very often, or a serious, depressed, or angry look on your face can be a warning sign of Parkinson's.
• Dizziness or fainting — Parkinson's can cause you to feel dizzy or faint when standing up out of a chair. However, dizziness and fainting could also have other causes, so it is important to share all of your symptoms with your physician.
• Stooping or hunching over — If you seem to be leaning or slouching when you stand, it could be an early sign of Parkinson's.

What can people do to manage their condition?

Although there is no known cure for Parkinson's, there are a number of medications available to help control symptoms. Your physician will determine the most appropriate medication and dosage based on your medical history, symptoms, and stage of the disease.

In addition, speech, occupational, and physical therapy can help people with Parkinson's learn to live with the symptoms of the disease. What's more, nurses, therapists, and home health aides can provide care in the home as needed, enabling those with the disease to avoid facility-based care, and the opportunity to live life to the fullest in comfort, safety, and dignity.

The National Institutes of Health also recommends talking to your physician about exercise, regular rest, and avoiding stress. Making nutrition and dietary changes can also help if you experience trouble swallowing.

Where can I learn more?

For more information on Parkinson's disease, visit:

National Parkinson Foundation

The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and want to know more about how care at home can help, contact BAYADA. We're happy to answer any questions you may have.