Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a chronic neurological disorder that occurs when the body does not have enough available dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps signals travel from your brain to your body so you can have smooth and coordinated movements. While the most recognizable symptoms of Parkinson's Disease are tremors and difficulty initiating movement, there are other symptoms that occur as well. Parkinson's Disease is a challenging condition to live with, and it is equally challenging to diagnose. This is in part due to the fact that this disease affects each person differently. If you suspect Parkinson's Disease is the problem, it is helpful to know some of the non-motor symptoms to look for.
Cognitive Symptoms
The Parkinson's Disease Foundation states that if you have PD, you may experience feelings of anxiety, dementia or confusion, and a tendency to participate in compulsive behaviors such as gambling. You may also be diagnosed with clinical depression. Depression may be present with additional symptoms such as a loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, unusual fatigue, feeling guilty, being overly self critical and having a sense of worthlessness.
Fatigue and Changes in Memory
You may also notice that you feel excessively tired and have a lack of energy and drive. According to the Michael J Fox Parkinson's Foundation, you may also have difficulty initiating or following through with tasks, problems with both short-term and long-term memory which can be mild or severe, and trouble trying to do more then one task at a time. For example, it may be challenging to walk and carry on a conversation at the same time. You may also find it harder to find words during a conversation, and you may process information more slowly than you could before your diagnosis.
Additional Non-Motor Symptoms
Parkinson's disease may also cause an all over body ache and unexplained general muscle pain and cramping. Additional symptoms can include a loss of smell, speech problems and a drop in blood pressure when you stand up. The New York Presbyterian Hospital claims that symptoms such as difficulty swallowing and chewing, drooling, urinary problems or constipation and skin problems may also be present.
