How to Recognize the Signs of Parkinson's Disease
Things You'll Need
- Orthopedic Shoes
- Books On Medical Conditions
- Mirrors
- Cane
- Medical Journals
Instructions
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1
Look for muscle stiffness, tremors and difficulty with coordination or balance.
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2
Understand that Parkinson's usually affects one side of the body first, then can progress to the other side.
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3
Notice if you avoid swinging an arm on one side of your body when you walk.
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This is a common symptom of Parkinson's. You could also have trouble swallowing.
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5
Realize that your face may suddenly seem to lack expression because your muscles are no longer working the way they used to.
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6
Understand that you may begin talking more quietly than you used to; your voice could become raspy.
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7
Look for difficulty with fine motor tasks, such as brushing your teeth or buttoning your shirt. Your handwriting may also change, becoming smaller and more cramped.
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8
Realize that you may have trouble walking through doorways or narrow hallways because your balance could be off.
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9
Be aware if you find yourself stuck in place when you go to take a step. This is called "freezing" and sometimes happens to people with Parkinson's disease.
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10
Remember that your foot on one side may start to drag.
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11
Understand that your skin may become more oily and you may experience dandruff as a result of the disease.
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12
Recognize that if you feel depressed or show signs of being senile that these could be secondary symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
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