Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Disease currently affects over a million people in the United States.
It is the fastest growing neurodegenerative disorder, has many symptoms, and can affect people in different ways.

Parkinson’s can cause:

  • tremor or shaking in hands (usually worse on one side and usually when the hand is resting)

  • slowed movements

  • stiff movements

  • changes in posture and balance

“Non-motor” symptoms can predate motor symptoms and are often the most debilitating feature of advanced disease. These include:

  • fatigue

  • constipation

  • loss of smell

  • sleep abnormalities such as insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, or vivid dreams

  • mood problems such as apathy, anxiety or depression

  • vision problems such as blurred or double vision

  • soft voice

  • cognitive impairment

In addition, certain autonomic nervous system functions may become affected, such as blood pressure control and bladder control.

For additional information, please view our list of
local and national Parkinson’s organizations.