Newsroom | Community Health
Office Visit: Understanding the Symptoms and Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease
April 30, 2025
April is Parkinson’s Awareness month, a time to shed light on a condition affecting over 10 million people globally. This progressive neurological disorder primarily impacts motor functions, leading to debilitating physical and emotional challenges. However, increased disease awareness can lead to earlier diagnoses and improved outcomes.
What is Parkinson's disease?
According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, Parkinson’s disease arises when nerve cells in the brain, specifically those that produce dopamine, degenerate. Dopamine is a vital neurotransmitter that helps control movement and coordination. As dopamine levels decrease, individuals may experience symptoms, including tremors, stiffness, slowness of movement and balance difficulties. While the cause of Parkinson's remains unclear, research suggests genetic and environmental factors may play a role.
What are the symptoms?
Parkinson's symptoms can vary among individuals, making it crucial to recognize early warning signs. Common symptoms include:
- Tremors: Often starting in one hand, involuntary shaking movements can occur at rest.
- Bradykinesia: This term refers to noticeable slowness in movement, making simple tasks feel strenuous.
- Rigidity: Muscles may become stiff and resistant to movement, leading to discomfort and decreased range of motion.
- Postural Instability: Balance issues can make falls more likely.
Todd Hoffman, M.D.
As Parkinson's disease progresses, individuals may also experience non-motor symptoms such as sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety, cognitive changes and difficulty with speech and swallowing.
How is Parkinson's treated?
Although no cure exists for Parkinson's disease, early diagnosis and a tailored management plan can enhance patients' lives. Health care providers typically recommend a combination of medications to alleviate symptoms by increasing dopamine levels or mimicking its effects. Moreover, engaging in regular physical activity such as tai chi, dance or resistance training has been shown to improve strength and mobility and may slow disease progression.
Support systems are essential to those affected by Parkinson's. Family members, friends and local community resources can provide invaluable emotional and practical support.
Through awareness, we can educate ourselves and loved ones about the signs and symptoms of Parkinson's disease, enhancing treatment outcomes.
Let’s make it a good month.
Todd Hoffman, M.D., C.P.E., is chief medical officer of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma, a division of Health Care Service Corp., a Mutual Legal Reserve Company.