Parkinson’s Disease: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects movement and can also influence sleep, mood and other daily functions. Symptoms vary from person to person and typically develop gradually.

Although there is no cure, medications, rehabilitation and other treatments can help manage symptoms and support quality of life.

What Causes Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s involves the loss of nervecells that produce dopamine, a chemical messenger that helps coordinatemovement. As dopamine levels decline, movement becomes harder to control.

The exact cause of this damage is not fullyunderstood. Researchers believe that genetic and environmental factorsinteract. Certain exposures to pesticides and solvents have been associatedwith increased risk, but having a risk factor does not mean someone willdevelop Parkinson’s.

The disease should not be attributed solelyto eating processed foods or to an irregular sleep schedule.

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Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s can cause both movement-related (motor) and non-motor symptoms. Not everyone experiences every symptom, and progression varies.

Movement Symptoms

Common movement symptoms include:

• Slowed movement, or bradykinesia: Everyday tasks take longer, and movements may become smaller.
• Resting tremor: Shaking often begins in a hand or another body part while it is relaxed. Not everyone with Parkinson’s has a tremor.
• Muscle stiffness, or rigidity: Movement may feel restricted or uncomfortable.
• Walking changes: Shorter steps, shuffling, reduced arm swing or episodes of “freezing” can occur.
• Balance difficulties: These often become more noticeable later in the disease.
• Speech changes: The voice may become softer or less clear.

A tremor alone does not establish a Parkinson’s diagnosis.

Non-Motor Symptoms

Other symptoms may include:

• Depression or anxiety.
• Sleep disturbances.
• Constipation.
• Reduced sense of smell.
• Fatigue.
• Changes in memory or thinking.

Some non-motor symptoms can appear before motor symptoms, but they also occur in many other conditions.

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How Is Parkinson’s Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosis generally relies on medical history, symptoms, and a neurological examination, often conducted by a neurologist or movement disorder specialist.

No single routine test definitively diagnoses every case. Imaging, laboratory tests, or other assessments may help distinguish Parkinson’s from conditions with similar symptoms. Follow-up examinations and response to treatment can also inform diagnosis.

Treatment and Support

A treatment plan should address both movement and non-motor symptoms.

Medication

Carbidopa-levodopa is a commonly prescribed combination treatment. Levodopa is converted into dopamine in the brain, while carbidopa helps more levodopa reach the brain and reduces certain side effects. Other medications may be appropriate depending on symptoms and treatment response.

Rehabilitation

Physical therapy can support strength, walking and balance. Occupational therapy helps with daily activities, while speech-language therapy can address communication and swallowing concerns.

Specialist Procedures

Deep brain stimulation may help selected individualsmanage certain movement symptoms. It is not a cure and does not halt disease progression.

Get Support for Parkinson’s Concerns

If you notice persistent changes in movement, walking, or daily function, schedule an evaluation. These symptoms warrant attention, even if Parkinson’s is not the cause.

tru Primary & Urgent Care can help evaluate your concerns and discuss appropriate next steps, such as specialist referrals and ongoing primary care support.