

More pronounced in the later stages, postural instability includes the inability to maintain a steady, upright posture or to prevent a fall. In more advanced Parkinson’s, speaking may become rapid, with the words crowded together, or stuttering may occur.

There may be a loss of the normal variation in volume and emotion in the voice, so that the individual may speak in a monotone. The voice may become softer, or it may start off strong and then fade away. These are believed to be at least partly due to bradykinesia. In addition to the five core motor symptoms of Parkinson’s, changes in the voice are commonly experienced. Having trouble turning over in bed and slow, small handwriting (micrographia) are other signs of bradykinesia.

In addition to a general slowness of movement, the bradykinesia of Parkinson’s disease is typically demonstrated by a reduced or mask-like expression of the face (hypomimia or facial masking), a decreased blink rate of the eyes, and problems with fine motor coordination (for example, difficulties buttoning a shirt). Greek for “slow movement,” bradykinesia is a frequent symptom of Parkinson’s disease and related movement disorders. Rigidity, especially in the early stages of the disease, may be wrongly attributed to arthritis or orthopedic problems, such as a rotator cuff injury. Rigidity refers to a tightness or stiffness of the limbs or torso.

In addition, some people with Parkinson’s disease can experience a feeling of internal tremor, which is not necessarily noticeable to others. The resting tremor of Parkinson’s disease can also occur in the jaw, chin, mouth, or tongue. TremorsĬharacteristically occurring at rest, the classic slow, rhythmic tremor of Parkinson’s disease typically starts in one hand, foot, or leg and eventually affects both sides of the body. If you suspect Parkinson’s, see a neurologist or movement disorders specialist. Not everyone with Parkinson’s disease has a tremor, nor is a tremor proof of Parkinson’s. In fact, younger people may only notice one or two of these motor symptoms, especially in the early stages of the disease. It is important to know that not all of these symptoms must be present for a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease to be considered. Observing two or more of these symptoms is the main way that physicians diagnose Parkinson’s. postural instability (balance problems).There are four primary motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease: What are the primary motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease?
