Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous condition affecting over 60,000 people in the United States every year. This condition gradually leads to tremors and the loss of movement. While there’s no known cure for Parkinson’s disease, early intervention is essential for the management of symptoms. At Multiple Sclerosis and Neurology Institute, we have a Parkinson’s disease specialist in Austin who performs thorough evaluations to identify Parkinson’s disease at the earliest stage possible to curate a personalized treatment plan, helping you remain independent longer. Please schedule a consultation if you notice the early signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s Disease FAQs
What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that leads to the gradual loss of movement. The symptoms might be barely perceptible at the initial stages. Perhaps your face may not show expressions, your hands might not swing while walking, or one of your hands may tremor slightly. But the symptoms gradually worsen, eventually leading to worsening movements and speech problems. While there’s no cure for Parkinson’s disease, early medical intervention can help you manage the symptoms and prevent them from worsening.
What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease?
The signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease are different for everyone. The earliest signs of Parkinson’s disease are barely perceptible and usually go unnoticed for extended periods. The symptoms usually start on one side of the body before progressing to both sides, but one side usually remains worse than the other. You must contact our Parkinson’s disease specialist in Austin if you notice any of the signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
The following are the most common signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease:
- Tremors or shaking of the hands or fingers
- You might rub your forefingers and thumbs back and forth
- Slowed movements and an inability to perform simple tasks
- Shorter steps while walking
- Difficulty while getting out of the chair
- Dragging the feet while walking
- Muscle stiffness in different parts of the body
- Limited range of motion
- Stooped posture
- Imbalance problems
- Loss of automatic movements, such as smiling and blinking
- Slurring or hesitant speech
- Monotone speech patterns
- Changes in handwriting
What causes Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease occurs when the neurons in the brain break down and die. In a healthy individual, the neurons produce a neurotransmitter called dopamine, which facilitates optimal communications between the brain and the body. When the neurons die, the dopamine level in your body also decreases, leading to the loss of movement and other functions. The specific root cause of Parkinson’s disease is still unknown, but researchers believe genetic factors and environmental triggers contribute to an increased risk.
How is Parkinson’s
disease diagnosed?
The Multiple Sclerosis and Neurology Institute is led by highly-skilled Parkinson’s disease specialists in Austin who perform a wide range of diagnostic tests and evaluations to determine if you have this disease. The medical provider will discuss your symptoms, review your medical history, and perform numerous imaging tests and neurological tests to identify the actual root cause of your symptoms.
What are the treatments
for Parkinson’s disease?
There’s no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but our medical providers will curate a personalized treatment plan to manage your symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening. Your treatment plan may include medications to increase dopamine levels, physical exercises, deep brain stimulation (DBS), and other therapies. Please schedule a consultation if you’re experiencing the signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
