Vascular parkinsonism
Vascular parkinsonism is caused by strokes and chronic circulation disorders deep within the brain. The strokes often occur in the frontal lobe; patients may not always notice them, but they can lead to parkinsonism at a later stage. This form of parkinsonism can also develop after a paralysis.
Symptoms of vascular parkinsonism
A patient with vascular parkinsonism typically walks with small, shuffling steps. It often takes longer to initiate voluntary movements. As the disease progresses, both the strength and speed of movements in the arms and legs decrease.
The patient experiences at least one of the following: balance issues/falls, muscle stiffness, or a resting tremor. If the symptoms are limited to the legs—difficulty stepping, maintaining balance, and walking with short strides—this is referred to as lower body parkinsonism.
In vascular or lower body parkinsonism, the patient responds less well to Parkinson’s medications such as Levodopa. Symptoms tend to begin gradually on both sides of the body, and walking, speech, and swallowing problems often appear sooner. Mental impairments are also common.
Treatment
Because treatment for vascular parkinsonism is usually less effective than for Parkinson’s disease, the prognosis is poorer and quality of life tends to decline more quickly.
Risk factors for vascular parkinsonism include diabetes, chronic high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol, and lack of physical activity.
