How To Detect the Symptoms Of Parkinson's Disease

  • November 19, 2009
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Parkinson’s disease is a chronic condition caused by a lack of dopamine in the brain. Diagnosis can sometimes take years; knowing symptoms can speed up the process.

You Will Need

  • An observant eye
  • A doctor
How To Detect the Symptoms Of Parkinson's Disease: Notice tremors

Step 1: Notice tremors

Take note of tremors, the most common and often earliest symptom of Parkinson’s disease. Tremors are a steady and rhythmic shaking of the hands or feet.

How To Detect the Symptoms Of Parkinson's Disease: Test rigidity

Step 2: Test rigidity

Test rigidity. Muscle stiffness is another common symptom. Stretch and move limbs to see if they feel heavy or weak.

Check for a decrease in facial expressions, as this is also an indicator of rigidity.

How To Detect the Symptoms Of Parkinson's Disease: Look for bradykinesia

Step 3: Look for bradykinesia

Look for a noticeable slowness in movement, known as bradykinesia. Movement may also be incomplete or hard to start.

How To Detect the Symptoms Of Parkinson's Disease: Test balance

Step 4: Test balance

Test the difficulty of keeping balanced with a gentle push. Parkinson’s disease can cause postural instability, which leads to loss of balance.

Check for a bent-forward posture when standing. This adds to the loss of balance.

How To Detect the Symptoms Of Parkinson's Disease: Look for loss in automatic movements

Step 5: Look for loss in automatic movements

Look for a loss in automatic movements, such as blinking or swallowing. Parkinson’s disease reduces many functions that are normally unconscious.

How To Detect the Symptoms Of Parkinson's Disease: See a doctor

Step 6: See a doctor

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a doctor for a thorough examination.

Did you know? Parkinson’s disease does not only affect the elderly. Ten percent of Parkinson’s patients are 40 years or younger.

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