Parkinson’s Disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the central nervous system. It is a progressive disease that gradually gets worse over time and is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain.

There are many symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease, with some being more common than others. In this article, we will take a look at the 10 most common symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease in pictures.

Tremors

The most common symptom of Parkinson’s Disease is tremors, which usually start in one hand or arm and then spread to the other side. Tremors can be seen in the fingers, hands, arms, legs, jaw, and face.

The tremors are usually more pronounced when the person is at rest and can be reduced when the person is engaged in physical activity.

Rigidity

Rigidity is another symptom of Parkinson’s disease and refers to the stiffness of the muscles. Rigidity can make it difficult for a person to move around and can cause pain in the muscles and joints.

Bradykinesia

Bradykinesia is a technical term for slowness of movement. This symptom can make it difficult for a person to perform simple tasks such as tying their shoelaces or buttoning a shirt.

Bradykinesia can also affect a person’s ability to speak, leading to a soft or slurred voice.

Postural Instability

Postural instability refers to the loss of balance and coordination that can occur with Parkinson’s Disease. This can make it difficult for a person to stand up from a sitting position, walk in a straight line, or turn around quickly.

Postural instability is one of the main causes of falls in people with Parkinson’s Disease.

Gait Disturbances

Gait disturbances are also common with Parkinson’s Disease and can include shuffling of the feet, taking short steps, and a stooped posture.

Gait disturbances can make it difficult for a person to walk for extended periods or to move around with ease.

Micrographia

Micrographia is a symptom of Parkinson’s Disease that affects a person’s handwriting. It refers to the gradual reduction in the size of a person’s handwriting as the disease progresses.

This can make it difficult for a person to write legibly.

Masked Face

People with Parkinson’s Disease may also have a masked face, which means they have a reduced ability to show facial expressions. This can make it difficult for a person to convey their emotions effectively.

Dysphagia

Dysphagia is a symptom of Parkinson’s Disease that affects a person’s ability to swallow. This can cause difficulties eating or drinking and can lead to dehydration and malnutrition if left untreated.

Freezing

Freezing is a symptom of Parkinson’s Disease that can occur when a person is walking. It refers to the sudden and temporary loss of movement, which can cause a person to feel as though they are stuck in place.

Freezing can be frustrating and may cause a person to lose confidence in their ability to move around.

Anosmia

Anosmia is a symptom of Parkinson’s Disease that refers to the gradual loss of the sense of smell. This can make it difficult for a person to detect odors and can affect their ability to enjoy food.

Anosmia can also be a symptom of other neurological disorders and should be evaluated by a medical professional.