Parkinson's disease is a condition in which the nerve cells producing dopamine die or become impaired. This leads to less dopamine being produced in the brain. The shortage of dopamine in turn leads to problems related to movement. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, the disease has a slow progression and symptoms take time to develop. Symptoms of advanced Parkinson's disease include tremors, rigidity or slowness of movement, and postural instability.
Tremors
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, tremors are a symptom of advanced Parkinson's disease. The institute reports that tremors, or shaking, can force a person to seek medical help. Tremors usually begin in one hand; however, it can be seen affecting the jaw and foot. This shaking usually disappears during sleep. Shaking of hands are most obvious when the individual is under stress or when the hands are resting. Deliberate movements may cause a reduction in tremors.
Rigidity and Slowness of Movement
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, rigidity is a primary symptom of advanced Parkinson's disease. Rigidity refers to resistance of movement, or stiffness. It is particularly obvious during a neurological examination when patients try to move their arms. Slowness of movement, or bradykinesia, is another symptom of Parkinson's disease. It becomes difficult for an individual to perform simple tasks. The Cleveland Clinic reports that it may take several hours for an individual to perform simple tasks such as dressing and bathing. The individual also has problems beginning a movement or in continuing it—a condition known as freezing.
Impaired Balance and Gait
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke reports that postural instability can result in advanced stages of Parkinson's disease. In this condition, there is impaired balance, which causes the individual to fall easily. Patients may develop what is known as a parkinsonian gait, where there is a tendency to lean forward and take tiny fast steps as if hurrying forward. Patients may also display increased difficulty starting or continuing movement. Changes in speech or dementia may also be noticed in some people with Parkinson's disease.
