Parkinson's Dizziness Problems

Parkinson's disease is a progressive, degenerative movement disorder that affects the nerve cells in your brain stem. Movement and balance problems are characteristic of the condition. Dizziness may be an early sign of the disease, a complication like orthostatic hypotension or caused by certain Parkinson's medications.

A Sign of Balance Dysfunction

• Parkinson's disease directly affects your balance. Increasing difficulties with walking, tremor, tingling in your feet and dizziness may all herald the decline of your sense of balance and may be early symptoms of the disease.

Exacerbating Other Symptoms

• Parkinson's main symptoms include stiff muscles, slow movements, tremors and difficultly walking. Dizziness may exacerbate these symptoms, making movements increasingly difficult.

Orthostatic Hypotension

• According to Dr. Timothy Hain, patients with Parkinson's disease frequently also have orthostatic hypotension, a condition characterized by a drop in your blood pressure upon standing or lifting heavy objects. The chief symptoms include dizziness and faintness.

Side Effect of Carbidopa-Levodopa Treatment

• Carbidopa-levodopa treatment is a primary treatment for Parkinson's disease. According to the American Parkinson Disease Association, dizziness is a common side effect of most Parkinson's medications.

Treatment

• An article on the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research website suggests that one option for alleviating Parkinson's-related dizziness is to take a balance class. While this can benefit everyone, Parkinson's patients may experience increased confidence, energy and strength, and decreased dizziness and walking difficulties.