Empower yourself with knowledge about Parkinson’s disease symptoms, diagnosis methods, and available resources for better management and support.
Parkinson’s Disease Awareness
What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that directly impacts the nervous system and causes movement problems. Parkinson’s disease starts very slowly, and the first symptom may be barely noticeable.
What are the common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease?
Symptoms of this disease vary by the individual who has this disease, but the most common are:
- Tremors- Rhythmic shaking which typically begins in a limb and has a tendency to tremble when at rest.
- Bradykinesia- Slowed movement, shorter steps, difficulty getting out of chair, and dragging feet when walking.
- Rigid muscles- Muscle stiffness can be painful and limit range of motion, can occur in any part of body.
- Impaired balance- Balance problems may occur, causing tripping or falling.
- Loss of automatic movements- Decreased abilities for unconscious movements such as smiling, blinking, and moving arms when walking.
- Changes in speech-Slurred speech, speaking softly, and monotone speaking.
- Problems with writing- Writing may become small, and harder to write in general.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Parkinson’s disease:
Currently, there is no specific test to diagnose this disease. A neurologist is the most common medical professional who can diagnose this. The way a neurologist can test a patient for this disease is by reviewing medical history, reviewing symptoms, conducting a neurological and physical examination. Currently, there is no treatment for Parkinson’s disease, but different medications can help control the symptoms along with physical therapy in order to increase balance and stability.
Resources for Individuals
For individuals that have this disease, it is important to understand and know about the available resources that can be used to benefit day-to-day life. Knowing about local support groups, educational programs, health/ wellness activities, community events, handbooks, referral services, and talking to your doctor are all ways to help improve your daily life. If non-medical home care is needed, there are also A-1 Home Care Agency. A-1 Home Care Agency specializes in caregiving, at home care, and choosing the perfect caregiver for each individual, at home. The home care assistance services they provide are senior care, respite care, in-home care services, round-the-clock care, after surgery care, memory care, hospice care and more for elderly, senior, disabled and terminally ill patients. If you or a loved one is interested in finding a care provider, call (562) 929-8400 or (949) 650-3800.
