Development of Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease is progressive: symptoms often begin gradually, usually on one side of the body, and tend to worsen over time in a completely unpredictable order. Early symptoms that, in hindsight, pointed to Parkinson’s may include feeling tired or weak, difficulty writing (a smaller and less clear handwriting), a tremor in the arm, or a foot that suddenly ‘freezes’.
The progression of the disease—both in speed and in symptoms—varies from person to person. With the right treatment, which is adjusted over the years, symptoms can often be managed reasonably well. Still, the disease has a significant impact on daily life.
Different symptoms of Parkinson’s disease
- Movement-related symptoms: Tremors, stiffness, shuffling gait, unsteadiness, loss of balance/falls, difficulty getting up from a chair or bed, trouble writing, reduced facial expression (mask-like face).
- Mood-related symptoms: Depression, low mood, anxiety, lack of motivation, confusion.
- Behavioural symptoms: Forgetfulness (Parkinson’s dementia), seeing or hearing things that aren’t there (hallucinations), impulsive behaviour such as excessive eating, shopping, gambling, or sexual activity.
- Physical symptoms: Choking, drooling, weight loss, constipation, bladder problems, erectile dysfunction, excessive sweating, reduced sense of smell, dizziness, difficulty speaking clearly.
- Sleep-related symptoms: Drowsiness during the day, insomnia at night, restlessness due to cramps, restless legs, difficulty turning over in bed.
Everything to help you maintain the best possible quality of life
At ParkinsonFonds, this is of course a key part of our mission. That’s why we are proud to fund research focused on improving the quality of life for people with Parkinson’s and their loved ones.
