Parkinson’s disease is a neurological condition caused by nerve cells breaking down and lowering dopamine levels. This causes tremors, rigidity, and progressively worsening mobility and loss of motor control issues in patients. The symptoms progress at a different rate in each person, and each person may exhibit symptoms differently. While there are many treatments, there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease.
Parkinson’s disease progresses in stages, and each stage is defined by characteristic symptoms. Not everyone will exhibit all of the symptoms of each stage, but the typical progression from stage one to stage five is marked by the increasing decline in health. In stage one, you may notice tremors on only one side of the body. For the most part, someone in stage one is able to continue daily activities without impact. During stage two, the tremors will begin to impact both sides of the person’s body and may begin to impact their ability to walk. During stage three, most Parkinson’s patients are able to remain independent, but most activities, especially dressing and eating, will become much slower and more arduous. When a person reaches stage four, they will most likely no longer be able to live independently and will need support in most living activities. They may require a walker. Once the patient reaches stage five, they will be wheelchair bound or even bedridden and require round-the-clock nursing care.
Parkinson’s disease can only be diagnosed by a physician, and anyone experiencing tremors on one side of the body should be examined. While there is no cure, there are treatments that can help the Parkinson’s patient prolong the onset of later stages of the disease, including lifestyle changes, exercises, and medications that raise dopamine levels.
For Parkinson’s treatment, schedule an appointment today with our Complete Neurological Care doctors and specialists, located in Queens, Downtown Manhattan, Midtown Manhattan, Long Island, Upper West Side, the Bronx, and New Jersey. We offer the skills and technology necessary to diagnose and treat your neurological concerns.
