Parkinson’s disease can cause a range of symptoms that may begin subtly and become more noticeable over time. While tremors are among the best-known signs of the neurological condition, changes in handwriting, walking speed, and even mental health can also be associated with the disease, according to a neurologist.
Dr. Vikram Shivkumar, a neurologist and movement disorder specialist at the Orlando Health Neuroscience Institute, regularly treats patients with Parkinson’s disease and related conditions, including essential tremor. In an educational video, he explained how the disease affects the brain and outlined some of the symptoms that may occur.
Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder, meaning it involves the progressive degeneration of certain parts of the brain and nervous system. According to Dr. Shivkumar, this process leads to a reduction in dopamine, a chemical messenger in the brain that plays an important role in controlling movement.
“The lack of dopamine is what causes most of the symptoms that we see in Parkinson’s disease,” he explained.
The symptoms can broadly be divided into two categories: motor symptoms, which affect movement, and non-motor symptoms, which can affect mood, thinking, and other functions.
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1. Tremors
Tremors are one of the most recognizable symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease. They involve involuntary shaking and may affect the hands or other parts of the body. However, not everyone with Parkinson’s develops a tremor, and shaking can also have other causes. A tremor alone does not necessarily mean someone has the disease.
2. Smaller Handwriting
A person may notice that their handwriting gradually becomes smaller than it used to be. This change, known medically as micrographia, can occur when Parkinson’s affects fine motor control. Dr. Shivkumar identified smaller handwriting as one of the changes that patients may notice as the disease develops.
3. Slower Movement and Reduced Arm Swing
Parkinson’s can affect the speed and fluidity of movement. People may find themselves walking more slowly or notice that their arms no longer swing naturally as they walk.
Dr. Shivkumar explained that changes in walking speed and reduced arm movement can be among the signs that prompt further evaluation.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Experiencing one of these symptoms does not automatically mean someone has Parkinson’s disease. Tremors, changes in handwriting, stiffness, slower movement, and mood changes can all have other explanations.
However, anyone experiencing persistent, unexplained changes in movement or coordination should speak with a healthcare professional. A neurologist, particularly a movement disorder specialist, can assess symptoms, consider other possible causes, and determine whether further evaluation is needed.
As Dr. Shivkumar explained, part of his role is to track the symptoms each patient experiences so that their care can be adjusted appropriately at follow-up visits. Recognizing changes early and seeking medical advice can help people get an accurate assessment and access appropriate care if needed.
