Parkinson’s Disease is a chronic disease that progresses through stages and adversely affect motor abilities, speech and cognition. In addition, Parkinson’s may impede speech, cognition and emotional well-being. There are no cures for Parkinson’s, but there are treatment options that do offer promise for patients throughout the stages of the disease. Symptoms vary according to individuals but generally include tremors, rigidity and balance issues that are often characterized by an awkward gait that involves short steps and problems with balance. Generally it is agreed that there are five stages of Parkinson’s’ Disease.
During stage 1, a patient may start to experience tremors. Often these tremors occur most often in one limb or the other. There may also be other changes such as troubles with balance and posture. The patient may also start exhibiting odd facial expressions and problems with their speech. As the disease progresses to stage 2, the patient may now have tremors on both sides of the body. Walking becomes more difficult and this is due in part to increased difficulties with balance and rigidity. The patient may find routine tasks require more effort and time and in some cases may become impossible to accomplish.
Stage 3 sees an increase of motor disturbances so that walking becomes very difficult. Posture is bent and physical movement becomes stiff and slow.
Stage 4 is one of the stages of Parkinson’s disease that may see a temporary lessening of some of the bilateral tremors. Though the reason why this happens is a mystery. However, by this stage of the disease many people are no longer able to take care of themselves and everyday tasks are impossible to perform. By the time stage 5 is apparent, the patient needs constant care. Standing or walking may no longer be possible and speech may be severely impeded. During these stages of Parkinson’s disease, drug therapies, physical therapy, exercise and speech therapy may off set some of the symptoms and provide some relief.