Parkinson’s Disease

According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, nearly 90,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease each year, with over 1 million Americans currently living with it. Globally, more than 10 million people are affected. [1] 

In Canada, over 110,000 individuals live with Parkinson’s today, and that number is projected to rise to 150,000 by 2034. [2]

This guide explains what Parkinson’s disease is and how it progresses, Parkinson’s disease symptoms and causes, and which early warning signs to watch for.

What Is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and progressive disorder of the brain that primarily impacts movement. It is classified as a neurodegenerative disease, meaning that it involves the gradual loss of nerve cells over time. The core issue in Parkinson’s is the breakdown of neurons in a region of the brain called the substantia nigra, which is critical for producing dopamine, a chemical messenger responsible for smooth, purposeful movement.

As dopamine levels decline, communication between the brain and muscles begins to fail, resulting in Parkinson’s symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness, and slowed movement. These motor symptoms are often accompanied by non-motor issues like sleep disturbances, fatigue, and depression.

While Parkinson’s is most common in people over 60, younger adults can develop early-onset forms of the disease. The condition advances slowly and varies widely in severity from person to person.

What is often mistaken for Parkinson’s?

Several conditions can mimic Parkinson’s early symptoms, including essential tremor, multiple system atrophy (MSA), and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). These disorders can present with similar motor symptoms but require different treatment approaches. [3]

Is Parkinson’s hereditary?

In most cases, Parkinson’s disease is not hereditary. However, genetic mutations can contribute to about 15% of cases. Mutations in genes such as LRRK2 and PARK7 are linked to familial Parkinson’s. Still, having a genetic risk factor does not guarantee development of the disease. [4]

Stages of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease symptoms progress through five stages:

1. Stage 1: Mild/Early Stage – Symptoms affect only one side of the body. Minor tremors, posture changes, and subtle facial expression differences may occur.
2. Stage 2: Moderate Stage – Symptoms become bilateral. Daily tasks take longer, and walking patterns start to shift, but balance remains intact.
3. Stage 3: Mid-Stage – Balance becomes noticeably impaired. Falls are more common. Daily activities become increasingly difficult.
4. Stage 4: Advanced Stage – Severe disability. Patients may walk with assistance but require help with most daily tasks.
5. Stage 5: Late Stage – Full-time care is required. Individuals may be confined to a bed or wheelchair and experience severe cognitive and motor decline. [5]

How long does it take to go from stage 1 to stage 4 Parkinson’s?

Progression rates vary, but it typically takes 7 to 10 years to move from early to advanced stages. Factors such as age, sex, lifestyle, and access to care influence disease progression.

At what stage of Parkinson’s does dementia start?

Parkinson’s disease dementia usually appears in later stages, often around Stage 4 or 5. Symptoms include memory loss, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. However, some patients may develop cognitive decline earlier, especially if they are older at diagnosis. [6]

Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms

Common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease affect both motor and non-motor functions.

Motor symptoms include:

• Tremors: Often start in the hands or fingers while at rest.
• Bradykinesia: Slowness of movement that makes everyday tasks more difficult and time-consuming.
• Rigidity: Muscle stiffness that may limit range of motion and cause pain.
• Postural instability: Impaired balance and coordination, leading to a higher risk of falls.
• Hypomimia: Reduced facial expressions, sometimes mistaken for depression.
• Speech changes: Soft, monotone, or slurred speech.
• Micrographia: Abnormally small or cramped handwriting.
• Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing, often appearing in later stages.

Non-motor symptoms include:

• Constipation
• Sleep disturbances
• Fatigue and loss of energy
• Anxiety and depression
• Loss of sense of smell (anosmia) [7] [8]

What does Parkinson’s gait look like?

Parkinson’s gait often appears shuffling, with small steps and reduced arm swing. Patients may have difficulty starting or stopping walking. They may also exhibit “freezing,” where their feet appear stuck to the floor.

What are the strange behaviors of Parkinson’s patients?

Beyond motor symptoms, Parkinson’s symptoms can include:

• Sudden sleep attacks
• Impulse control issues (e.g., gambling)
• Hallucinations
• Depression and anxiety [9]

These behaviors result from dopamine imbalance and medication side effects. Behavioral changes can be early indicators of Parkinson’s disease in women.

Signs of Parkinson’s Disease

Signs of Parkinson’s disease refer to observable indications that may precede or accompany the symptoms. These signs are particularly important for early detection.

• Loss of smell (anosmia)
• Constipation not related to diet
• Vivid dreams or REM sleep behavior disorder
• Frequent fatigue or lack of energy
• Stiffness or cramping in limbs without exertion
• Decreased facial expression [10] [11]

These signs may overlap with early symptoms but are often subtle and develop gradually.

Early Signs of Parkinson’s in Women

While early Parkinson’s signs are similar across both sexes, women may experience more non-motor symptoms, such as fatigue, anxiety, or sleep problems, before visible tremors appear. Hormonal differences may also play a role in symptom onset.

When to Seek Medical Attention

You should consult a specialist if you notice:

• Persistent tremors
• Changes in walking or balance
• Slower movement
• Muscle stiffness

Early intervention helps delay progression and manage symptoms effectively. Use internal tools to track symptoms and medication timing.

What Causes Parkinson’s Disease?

The cause of Parkinson’s disease remains unknown in most cases. However, researchers believe it results from a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Triggers may include:

• Exposure to toxins such as pesticides or heavy metals
• Traumatic brain injury or repeated head trauma
• Natural aging processes that cause cellular damage [12]

Parkinson’s specifically damages neurons that produce dopamine, a chemical that helps control smooth and coordinated muscle movement. These neurons are located in the basal ganglia, a brain region that regulates motor control. 

As dopamine levels drop, communication between the brain and muscles weakens, leading to the hallmark Parkinson’s symptoms. This breakdown in neural function is widely considered the most consistently observed cause of Parkinson’s disease.

Risk Factors for Parkinson’s Disease

Although there is no guaranteed predictor, researchers have identified several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing Parkinson’s disease:

• Family history: A genetic predisposition due to mutations in genes like LRRK2 or PARK7. 
• Environmental exposure: Long-term contact with pesticides, herbicides, or industrial toxins. 
• Age: The risk increases significantly after the age of 60. 
• Gender: Men are slightly more likely to develop Parkinson’s than women. 
• Head trauma: A history of traumatic brain injury may elevate the risk.
• Rural living and well water use: Potential exposure to agricultural chemicals.
• Occupational exposure: Jobs involving solvents, heavy metals, or chemicals.
• Air pollution: Long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) may increase neurological risk.
• Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle in middle age has been linked to higher risk. [13] [14]

These factors contribute to a higher risk but do not confirm a diagnosis. 

Complications of Parkinson’s Disease

Advanced Parkinson’s disease symptoms can lead to:

• Difficulty swallowing or speaking
• Cognitive decline, including dementia
• Depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal
• Sleep disorders and hallucinations
• Bladder and bowel dysfunction
• Low blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension)
• Increased risk of falls and fractures [14]

These complications reduce independence and affect both patients and caregivers.

Living with Parkinson’s: When to Get Help

Living with Parkinson disease is a long-term journey that requires support at every stage. While the condition progresses slowly, it can have a serious impact on daily life.

When symptoms become more disruptive—whether it’s a worsening tremor, trouble walking, or changes in mood—it’s important to seek medical advice. Adjustments to therapy, medication, or neuromuscular treatment plans can help maintain function and independence.

Caregiver support is equally important. As needs grow, additional help at home or through professional services may be required. Waiting too long to get help can lead to preventable complications.

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, contact Moore MyoWorx. Our team of specialists focuses on treating neuromuscular and neurological dysfunctions through individualized therapy plans. MyoWorx’s non-invasive, evidence-based approach can help reduce muscular restrictions, improve mobility, and relieve symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease.