What to Expect in Extreme Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is a progressive condition, meaning that its effects grow worse over time. An increasing degree of disability can be expected, although individual sufferers are impacted differently by the effects of Parkinson's.

Prognosis

• Medline Plus reports that Parkinson's disease can lead to the eventual loss of all brain function and death if left untreated. The Mayo Clinic reports that, although some people respond well to treatment, drug therapy tends to lose effectiveness over time.

Disability

• The loss of muscle control associated with Parkinson's disease can eventually be disabling and make everyday activities difficult or impossible, according to Medline Plus.

Facial Muscles

• The muscles of the face and throat are affected in advanced Parkinson's. Medline Plus reports that this can making chewing and swallowing difficult. Aspiration pneumonia, which occurs because of inhaling saliva, is also a risk.

Injury

• According to Medline Plus, people with advanced Parkinson's are at risk of injury from falling.

Other Complications

• The Mayo Clinic reports that other complications of Parkinson's disease include depression, trouble with sleeping, urinary incontinence, constipation and a decrease in sexual desire.