Progressive Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease

While Parkinson's disease has no cure, there are medications that are used to treat its symptoms. One of the early symptoms is a slight tremor in the hand. Other early signs include a lack of expression in the face, slowing of movement, and mumbled and soft speech. As the disease progresses, the symptoms increase.

Motion

• As Parkinson's progresses, it becomes more difficult to make basic voluntary movements. It becomes difficult to walk, steps are short and shuffled, and taking the first step is extremely difficult.

Posture

• As Parkinson's progresses, the body can become stooped. In the later stages, imbalance is common.

Dementia

• Some people suffer with memory and clarity loss in the later stages of Parkinson's.

Movement

• Automatic movements, such as smiling, blinking or swinging arms, disappear as the disease progresses. Those with Parkinson's can appear animated and lacking in natural gestures.

Muscles

• Muscles become rigid and stiff as the disease progresses, particularly in the neck and limbs. This stiffness can limit the range of movement.