Secondary Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

Most Parkinson’s patients will experience three of the four main motor symptoms but will also experience other symptoms called secondary motor symptoms. Not all people will experience all of these but some will have noticeable secondary symptoms.

One of the most disturbing secondary symptoms to most people is the speech and facial problem that come with Parkinson’s disease. Their voice gets softer, words or slurred and it is hard for them to control their speech. The facial muscles begin to get rigid and that also affects speech. The rigid muscles cause the face to look expressionless or frozen. It will be difficult for them to express any emotions and the smile that was so easy to find is not there any longer. The face looks like a mask and that is disturbing to many people.

Some Parkinson’s patients have stooped posture as well as bone weakness. They lean forward while they are walking and their shoulders are drooped. Their arms may be limited in motion and are unable to swing their arms naturally. This also interferes with balance and could create a falling risk.

There are problems with fine motor skills and motor coordination. The Parkinson’s patient may feel disjointed and become frustrated because they are unable to perform simple tasks. Dressing becomes harder and it will take them longer to each action. The slip on clothes, sweats, and simple dresses are best for those who are having problems with motor skills. It will reduce their frustration level and give them some control over their lives if they are able to dress themselves.

Fatigue plays a major role in secondary symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. This is a time when they should remain active to retain mobility and flexibility but feel unable to because of being tired. Regular exercise will help ease the fatigue if they can start a simple exercise daily routine. They should contact their doctor before they start if they are unused to doing any physical activity.

Other symptoms can include micrographia, which is small and cramped handwriting, drooling, aching, trouble going to sleep at night or falling asleep without notice during the day. Some Parkinson’s patients may also experience intestinal problems, constipation and have problems in their sexual life. They may start experiencing confusion or show early signs of dementia. These symptoms lead to fear, anxiety and depression. These are all non-motor symptoms but still disturbing to the patient. They may also experience problems with memory and slower thinking. The Parkinson’s patient and immediate family will be alarmed at these symptoms and may need help in coping with the fear, depression and anxiety they cause.

Parkinson’s disease has led to compulsive behavior such as gambling, acting out sexually, and other compulsive habits. These symptoms may be serious and should be addressed by the patient’s doctor. Although there is not yet a cure for Parkinson’s disease, there are medications and alternative medicines that will help manage and control the symptoms for many years. Many Parkinson’s patients are able to lead a nearly normal life with medication and lifestyle changes.

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