Parkinson's Disease
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson's disease is a brain condition that affects how your body moves. It happens when certain nerve cells in the brain stop working or die. These cells help control your muscles. If they don't work properly, you may have trouble moving your body.
Parkinson's is a long-term condition that gets worse over time. Early signs can be hard to notice and may come and go. There is no cure yet, but doctors can help you manage your symptoms.
The Michigan Parkinson Foundation states that 1.5 million people in the United States have Parkinson's disease. In Michigan, that number is 35,000. MyMichigan neurologists see more than 500 patients with Parkinson's disease each year.
Common Symptoms
There are four main symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease.
- Tremors – shaking or a "pin rolling" motion between thumb and forefinger.
- Slow Movements (Bradykinesia) – muscles move slowly. Automatic actions, like blinking, happen less often.
- Stiffness (Rigidity) – arms, legs, or body feel tight or hard to move.
- Balance Problems (Postural Instability) – trouble with balance and coordination.
Other symptoms can also show up as the disease gets worse, include:
- Micrographia – small, cramped handwriting
- Freezing – a feeling of being stuck in place when trying to move
- Dysarthria – soft/low or slurred speech
- Constipation
- Trouble sleeping
- Oily skin or dandruff
- Mood changes like depression
How is Parkinson’s Diagnosed?
Parkinson's disease begins with subtle changes, and early symptoms can be difficult to spot. Often, friends or family notice the changes first. If someone thinks you might have Parkinson's, it is important to see a neurologist.
There is no single test that shows if you have Parkinson's. Doctors will use a checklist called the Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) to help diagnose the disease. It helps check motor function and daily activities. It also looks at medication side effects and your personal symptoms. Your doctor might order an MRI to rule out other problems.
Treatment and Support
There is no cure for Parkinson's, but treatment can help you feel better and stay active. The best treatment plans include:
- Medications to help your brain control movement.
- Exercise helps with physical and mental function, quality of life, strength, and more.
- Healthy eating
- Stress management and relaxation techniques
The Neurologists at MyMichigan work with a full team to help. This includes Rehabilitation Services:
- Physical therapists - help you walk and stay mobile.
- Occupational therapists - help with everyday tasks.
- Speech therapists - help with speaking, swallowing, memory, and thinking.
Common medicines include:
- Levodopa (Sinemet) - helps reduce the brain chemicals that control movement.
- Carbidopa – taken with Levodopa to reduce side effects.
- Dopamine agonists - help mimic dopamine in the brain.
