What are the Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease?

Living with Parkinson's disease, especially when diagnosed young, can throw a lot your way. Figuring out what's "normal" Parkinson's and what might be something else can feel overwhelming. That's why YOPN is breaking down the common symptoms of Parkinson's disease in a way that's easy to understand. 

Here's the thing: Parkinson's affects everyone differently. You might experience all of these symptoms, some of them, or even none at first. The key is to be aware of what's possible and to talk to your doctor if you notice any changes. 

The Most Recognized  PD Symptoms Are Movement Related 

These movement related symptoms are most often associated with Parkinson’s Disease.  They are just the “Tip of the Iceberg” 

• Tremors: This is the shaking you might think of first with Parkinson's. It usually starts in one hand or arm and tends to happen when your limb is relaxed. It might look like a pill-rolling motion with your thumb and fingers. 

• Slowness of Movement (Bradykinesia): This can make everyday tasks feel like they take forever. It might be hard to get started moving, like getting out of a chair, or your walking might become slow and shuffling. 

• Muscle Stiffness (Rigidity): This tightness in your muscles can make it tough to move around freely. It can affect any part of your body and sometimes be painful. 

• Balance and Coordination: Stumbling or feeling unsteady on your feet can be a sign of Parkinson's. 

• Automatic Movements: (Dyskinesia): This symptom, which is actually a long-term side effect of the medication, presents as wild, uncontrolled movement of the body. 

Beyond the Visible Symptoms 

While the visible, movement related symptoms are the more recognizable symptoms of PD, most patients report that the hardest parts of PD are the non-movement symptoms that one cannot see.  These include: 

• Speech: You might start talking softer, slur your words, or hesitate before speaking. 
• Loss of smell: This is often one of the first symptoms to surface 
• Sleep Issues- Inability to fall asleep or to stay asleep, REM Behavioral Disorder 
• Constipation/GI Issues- Constipation causes poor medicine absorption 
• Anxiety/Depression-As disease progresses, symptoms increase, triggering these emotions  
• Cognitive Decline- Occurs in about 30% of patients 
• Executive Functioning Skills:  Many report the inability to multitask, prioritize and focus 
• Apathy- experiencing the lack of motivation to get up and go 

Remember: This list is not exhaustive, and everyone experiences Parkinson's differently. If you're noticing any of these, talk to your doctor. They can help you figure out what's going on and develop a treatment plan that works for you.