Coping with Symptoms - Parkinson's Disease Foundation (PDF)

Coping with Symptoms
If you have gone to the doctor because of movement symptoms, you may not be aware — and your doctor may not tell you at the time you are diagnosed —that Parkinson’s disease manifests in many additional ways other than the more visible movement symptoms. Fatigue, constipation, and sleep problems are a few such examples of common non-movement symptoms of PD.

These changes are called nonmotor symptoms of Parkinson's. They can also include mild cognitive impairment (such as difficulty focusing on a task), depression, soft speech, pain, and impulsive behaviors.

These symptoms are frequently more troubling, and interfere more with daily life, than motor symptoms.
Effective therapies are available to treat these symptoms — medications as well as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.

Recognizing nonmotor symptoms, and understanding how they may affect your quality of life, is a first step toward taking control of your health and living well with Parkinson’s.

Learn more about:
Fatigue
Cognitive impairment
Depression
Sleep disturbances
Speech problems
Gastrointestinal issues
Pain
Orthostatic hypotension (Low Blood Pressure)
Impulsive behaviors
Skin changes
Vision changes

Related Resources from the PD Resource List
PD: More than a Movement Disorder
Category: Non-Motor Symptoms and Complications of Parkinson’s
Resource Type: Publications
Publication Date: 2007
Author: J. William Langston, M.D.
Publisher: Parkinson's Disease Foundation
Cost: Free
Toll Free: (800) 457-6676
Email: info@pdf.org
Associated URL: www.pdf.org/en/factsheets
Address: 1359 Broadway, Suite 1509
City: New York Zip: 10018
Language: English
State: New York
This fact sheet offers information about the non-motor symptoms and pathological elements that are sometimes overlooked in some definitions of PD. Subjects include the current scientific understanding of PD, as well as the syndromes and symptoms that can lead to its diagnosis. Also offered in Spanish.

View all Resources Related to Coping with Symptoms
Coping with Symptoms - Parkinson's Disease Foundation (PDF)