Understanding Parkinson's Disease: Symptoms & Management

Parkinson's disease is a neurological disease that affects the motor skills and other bodily functions. There is no cure for the condition but some medicines and surgery can help a person manage its symptoms, which vary from person to person.

Tremor

• Shaking of the hands is a common symptom of Parkinson's. It usually manifests as a repeated rubbing together of the thumb and pointer finger.

Slowed Motion

• Parkinson's disease affects voluntary movement. People with the disease will find walking and other simple movements difficult and time consuming.

Muscle Stiffness

• People with Parkinson's sometimes experience rigid muscles in the neck, arms, legs and shoulders.

Speech

• Some Parkinson's sufferers will experience difficulty with speaking. Speech can be slurred, hesitant or stunted.

Automatic Movements

• Automatic movements like blinking and smiling are sometimes taken away by Parkinson's. People with the condition tend to develop an unblinking stare.