Parkinson’s disease has popped in and out of Hollywood over the years. Between films highlighting the development of treatment, Michael J. Fox’s experience, and the recent death of Muhammed Ali, Parkinson’s disease is coming up in conversation. Many may quickly label the condition as severe shakes that occur in geriatric populations, but symptoms are varied. Four main motor 
symptoms manifest from this nerve cell damage in the brain: bradykinesia, tremor, stiffness, and balance.
- Bradykinesia, or slowness of movement makes everyday activities challenging. Depending on progression of the disease, this can manifest in small tasks such as brushing teeth or important functions like speech.
- Tremor, as mentioned before, is perhaps the most recognizable symptom of Parkinson’s. This involuntary shake occurs while a patient is at rest. Tremor usually decreases with movement, but can prolong a patient’s angst for relaxation or sleep.
- Stiffness can occur in either the trunk or extremities. The discomfort it results in can be difficult to overcome, especially when combined with bradykinesia.
- Balance troubles can appear while a patient is just standing upright, or walking. This can lead to further injuries through falls, or frustration when a patient just wants to feel at ease.
Non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s have less to do with movement, and can include mood and sleep disorders, or cognitive changes such as an inability to focus or dementia.
Do you know someone with Parkinson’s? Contact Asclepes Research at (747) 998-0394 or email us at [email protected] to see if they may qualify for a research study.
Source: Parkinsons.org Photos: TheSun & @MichaelJFoxOrg