What Has Trembling Hands, Stiffness, Poor Balance, and Slow Movement?

Someone with Parkinson’s disease will have poor balance, and coordination, movement that is slow, may have stiffness in the arms, legs and trunk of the body as well as trembling arms, hands, jaw and face and also legs. All of these symptoms will become progressively worse over time. A person suffering from Parkinson’s will have trouble talking, walking and doing everyday tasks no matter how simple they seem to the rest of us. They may also suffer from sleep problems, trouble swallowing to the point where they may choke and they may also have trouble speaking. They may also be diagnosed with depression.

Usually individuals are diagnosed around age 60 with Parkinson’s disease. Men and women both develop Parkinson’s. Sadly, there is no cure for Parkinson’s, you do not recover or get better. Treatment is for symptom relief but because the disease is progressive the symptoms will continue.

Managing the disease:

Your doctor will tell you about occupational therapy because when you participate in this type of therapy can improve joint movement, improve coordination and dexterity, and you can also learn techniques for better balance. The therapist will also teach you techniques for reducing hand tremors and improve the quality of your voice. A therapist can also suggest home modifications that can improve your safety.

Individuals with Parkinson’s need the support of family and friends and they will be better at supporting if they educate themselves about Parkinson’s.

A person with Parkinson’s can lead a very challenging life. There are tools that can make managing life with Parkinson’s easier. Here are a few tools to use to make managing the challenges easier:

Visit your doctor regularly so that you can receive the best attention possible and to get answers to any questions you have. When you have regular visits with your doctor you can be monitored better regarding how you are reacting to the medications you are on.

Make sure that you understand all of the medical terms that you doctor may use regarding Parkinson’s so that you can communicate effectively with your doctor.

You may request a referral to a neurologist, a specialist on treating Parkinson’s disease.

Your doctor is not your only "tool" for managing Parkinson’s disease. Your diet and exercise is another tool.

A nutritious diet and regular exercise are two things that you can do for your body that will help you to cope with Parkinson’s.

Other tools you may use are physical therapy, yoga, and the Alexander technique.

A positive attitude is an excellent tool when it comes to managing your disease.

Make sure you notify all the appropriate people about your diagnosis because when the right people know about your disease you can qualify for special services or benefits. Make sure you notify all doctors, including your dentist, your insurance policy holder and your lawyer for all legal matters and documents for your personal and medical care in the future.

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