Do I Have Parkinson’s Disease?

Have you noticed a slight shaking or tremor while at rest, in your finger, thumb, hand or chin?

Has your handwriting changed and become much smaller than it was in the past (the letter size is smaller) and the words are packed?

Do you find it difficult to write?

Have you noticed that you can't smell certain food, such as bananas, dill pickles or licorice?

Do you move around restlessly while sleeping?

Do you feel stiffness in your body, arms or legs?

Have you noticed or anyone told you that your arms do not swing like they used to when you walk?

Do you have constipation?

Have you noticed any changes in your voice - your voice is become very soft or hoarse?

Do you speak quickly or unclear, or hesitate before talking?

Have anyone told you that you have the same type of serious or staring look all the time (“facial masking”- your face may show little or no expression)?

Do you feel dizzy, especially when you get up from a sitting position?

Do you have stooped posture (you not standing up as straight as you used to) or you have a balance problems?

Do you have difficulty with walking; your steps are become shorter and you drag your feet as you try to walk?

Do you move slowly and simple tasks become difficult and time-consuming?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a long-term, progressive disease of your central nervous system that affects your movement. The symptoms of Parkinson's can vary from person to person, and in the early stages of the disease they can be mild and go unnoticed. As Parkinson's progresses, the symptoms worsen and become more obvious. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms. Sometimes, shaking in your hand is nothing to worry about. It could be caused by a medicine you take, stress or a vigorous exercise.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s disease is a chronic, progressive disorder of your nervous system that mainly affects your movement. The cause of Parkinson’s is unknown, but there is evidence that genetics and environmental factors play an important role. The risk of Parkinson’s increases with age and it is more common in men than women. The diagnosis of Parkinson’s can be difficult. You should see your doctor if you have any of the signs related to Parkinson’s disease. For now, there is no cure for Parkinson’s, but there are many treatment options that can relieve your symptoms.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s is a long-lasting, degenerative disease of your brain that affects your movement. The symptoms begin gradually and worsen over time. Since there is no cure for Parkinson’s, treatment includes a number of options to alleviate the symptoms. The mainstay of treatment is medications. Physical, occupational and speech therapy are also an important part of a treatment plan that can help you improve your gait, maximize your fine motor skills and overcome speech problems. Some patients will benefit from surgery. A healthy diet will raise your energy level and contribute to your overall health.