Parkinson’s disease is a long-term neurological condition that primarily affects the brain and central nervous system. It causes problems with movement, mental health, sleep, and pain. Symptoms usually begin gradually and worsen over time. Below is some basic information about causes and risks and early signs and symptoms to look out for.
Possible causes of Parkinson’s disease
The exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is still unknown; however, researchers believe it’s likely a combination of genetic and environmental factors. These factors may cause dopamine-producing nerve cells to die, which can lead to Parkinson’s symptoms. Certain nerve cells, called neurons in the brain, gradually break down or die. There are several factors including:
Genetic Factors:
Genetics are thought to play a role in about 10- 15% of cases, but the exact interaction between genetic changes and an individual’s risk of developing the disease is not fully understood.
Researchers have identified specific genetic changes that can cause Parkinson’s disease, but often these are uncommon except in rare cases with many family members affected by Parkinson’s disease.
Environmental Factors:
Exposure to certain toxins or environmental factors may increase the risk of Parkinson’s. For example, exposure to certain pesticides and herbicides has been linked to an increased risk of Parkinson’s. Long-term exposure to heavy metals such as Manganese, lead, and mercury has been suggested to increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s.
Age:
Age is the most significant risk factor for Parkinson’s disease. The average age of diagnosis for Parkinson’s disease is 60, but it can develop at any age. About 5- 10% of people with Parkinson’s develop the disease before age 50, and in rare cases, it can be diagnosed in people under 40.
The risk increases with age, and most people diagnosed with Parkinson’s are over the age of 60. As we age, neurons may become more susceptible to damage, and the brain’s ability to repair itself diminishes.
There are, of course, other factors that cause Parkinson’s, but these are just a few to gain an understanding of the cause.
Early signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease
The early signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can be subtle and may develop gradually over time. Recognising these early indicators is crucial for seeking medical attention and managing the disease more effectively. Some of the early signs and symptoms are as follow:
Tremors:
Rhythmic shaking often starts in a hand or finger, especially when the limb is relaxed. A tremor while at rest is a common early sign of Parkinson’s disease.
Slow movement:
Also known as bradykinesia, this can make simple tasks difficult and time-consuming and can result in a shuffling walk. Simple tasks such as buttoning a shirt or brushing teeth may take longer. It may also cause a decrease in facial expressions and a shuffling gait.
Muscle Stiffness:
Also known as rigidity, this can make it difficult to move around and make facial expressions and can lead to painful muscle cramps and discomfort. It may also contribute to a stooped posture.
There are numerous more symptoms that would indicate early signs of Parkinson’s that are varied and subtle, often mistaken for normal ageing or other conditions. Recognising these early indicators is important in order to get an early diagnosis. The above are just a few to get a basic understanding of Parkinson’s and what it can look like.
Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder that develops gradually over time. It is often described in stages, which help to categorise the severity of the symptoms and the impact on daily life.
The five stages of Parkinson’s disease:
Below is an overview of the 5 stages of Parkinson’s disease defined by Hoehn and Yahr based on the level of clinical disability. The stages provide a framework for understanding the progression of the disease, though the experience can vary greatly from person to person.
Stage one:
During this initial stage, the person will start to show early signs of Parkinson’s, potentially some of the symptoms listed above, but these generally won’t interfere with daily activities. The symptoms may only affect one side of the body, and slight changes in posture, walking or facial expressions may be noticeable.
Stage two:
You may notice the symptoms start to worsen. Tremor, rigidity, and over-movement symptoms begin to affect both sides of the body, and walking problems and poor posture may be apparent.
The person experiencing the symptoms, whether you or a loved one, is still able to live independently. However, daily tasks are more difficult and lengthier, such as writing, dressing, and speaking, which may require more effort.
Stage three:
This is considered the mid-stage. As symptoms become more severe and balance is significantly affected, motor symptoms continue to worsen. During this stage, falls are more common.
The person is still capable of leading a physically independent life but is now restricted in their daily activities. Even though they are still able to live alone, help may be needed with more complex tasks.
Stage four:
At this point, symptoms are fully developed and severely disabling leading to significant limitations in movement and daily activities. The person is still able to walk and stand without assistance but may need to ambulate with a cane/ walker for safety.
The person requires a significant amount of help with activities of daily living and is now, unfortunately, unable to live alone. The quality of life is significantly impacted, and the risk of complications, such as infections due to immobility, increases.
Stage five:
The fifth and most advanced stage is the most debilitating. Stiffness in the legs may make it impossible to stand or walk. All independence is no longer there as the person becomes bedridden or confined to a wheelchair unless aided. This is where around-the-clock care is required for all activities.
As previously stated, not everyone will experience the same Parkinson’s journey; however, this stage is where severe motor symptoms are present, and non-motor symptoms, including dementia, hallucinations, and severe depression, may be dominant.
If a loved one you know is starting to show early signs of Parkinson’s or maybe showing further stages of Parkinson’s, putting together a care plan for their well-being, as well as yours, is essential. Click the link to read more about our home care services and what we have to offer that could ease stress and pressure off your family.
Furthermore, if you care for someone living with Parkinson’s and have questions, you might find some helpful advice from our other guides, which focus on other issues you might also be facing. Our aim is to provide tips, advice, and comfort through our blogs and try to write something for everyone.
We acknowledge that care is a broad umbrella and there isn’t one type of care for everyone that requires it, but if you are caring for a loved one and are looking for someone to offer additional support, head over to our home care section to read more about our care packages and see which one might suit you and your loved ones’ needs.
