• Speech and writing changes
• Sleep problems
• Constipation
• Dizziness
CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS
The cause of Parkinson's disease is
not yet known, according to the Mayo
Clinic. But researchers suspect that it
is caused by a combination of genetic
and environmental factors.
Typically affecting the aging
population, Parkinson’s is more
likely to develop in people around
60, and the risk increases with every
decade after 60. Additional risk
factors include being male, heredity,
toxins and repeated head injuries or
concussions.
DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT
Currently, a specific testing for
diagnosing the disease has not been
identified, so it is best for patients to
work with a neurologist as early as
possible to determine the best course
of action.
Although there currently is no cure
for Parkinson’s disease, there are
many medications available that can
treat symptoms. Many studies have
also indicated that exercise can assist
in slowing down the progression
of the disease. Some doctors also
recommend deep brain stimulation,
a surgical procedure that reduces
the movement-related symptoms by
implanting electrodes in the brain.
5 STAGES OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE
EARLY PD MID-STAGE PD ADVANCED PD
STAGES 1 2 3 4 5
Severity MILD MILD MODERATE SEVERE SEVERE
Symptoms only
seen on one side
of the body
Symptoms seen
on both sides or at
the midline
Loss of balance
and slowness of
movement
Symptoms
severely disabling
Symptoms severe
and characterized
by inability to rise
SYMPTOMS SYMPTOMS SYMPTOMS SYMPTOMS SYMPTOMS
• Tremor (1 hand)
• Rigidity
• Clumsy leg
• Facial expression
loss (1 side)
• Facial expression
loss (both sides)
• Decreased
blinking
• Speech changes
• Rigid trunk
muscles
• Balance loss
• Inability to make
rapid, automatic
adjustments
• All other PD
symptoms
present
• May be able to
walk and stand,
but noticeably
impaired
• Unable to live
independent,
unassisted life
• Falls when
standing or
turning
• May freeze or
stumble when
walking
• Hallucinations or
delusions
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